I have to write about Roger Federer before his magnificent career is over (which doesn't looking imminent). Brian Phillips already wrote about the match and Louisa Thomas covered it for Andy Murray. But I'm obliged to make my own record because Friday's match between these two was sensational.
First, a shoutout to Richard Gasquet who did his thing - flitting around the court until he could unload on that gorgeous backhand. He hung around valliantly until the difference between his serve and Novak's finally became too much.
But back to Roger - Andy. I don't think I'll ever get sick of seeing Federer serve. The power of the first serve and the audicious verve of his second, the way he mixes spins and locations, the lines that he paints. The deception, grace, and beauty. It reminds me of Greg Maddux on the mound. For those that aren't familiar with the Maddux, this is a good start. Just like Federer's service game, Maddux was known for efficiency, accuracy, and beauty. Both confounded their opponents with debilitating deception. Both men's form and mechanics are textbook. Both are ruthlessly efficient, yet a joy to watch. Maddux breezed through his innings making everything look easy, never looking like he's throwing that hard or trying too much, the ball seemingly on a string. Federer does the same, though he does have that power.
