Roger’s quest for the best

July 10, 2009 | Posted by Benjie

photo courtesy: AP/Anja Niedringhaus/Tennis.com

Photo Courtesy: AP/Anja Niedringhaus/Tennis.com

I took everything early on Sunday night so I would not miss the final match between Roger Federer and Andy Roddick. I knew I would be watching history unfolding.

Watching the game itself in Super Sport was a rare experience as three records were taking place. First, Roger Federer’s seventh Wimbledon final. Second, his 20^th Grand Slam Tournament final surpassing Czech Ivan Lendl’s record of 19. But what’s even more meaningful was my experience to catch the match as Roger sought for the best record – 15 Grand Slam titles. The previous record was held by American Pete Sampras at 14. Roger was able to surpass Pete’s feat.

The historic match was witnessed by a number celebrities from all walks of life on the bleachers. From actors including Russell Crowe and Woody Allen to political figure in Henry Kissinger and tennis legends Pete Sampras, Rod Laver and Bjorn Borg to name a few.

When the smoke cleared, it all went down to the record books- 15 Grand Slam titles. It’s a legacy that Federer could give back to tennis. After all, tennis made him ‘Roger Federer’.