Roger Federer vs. Tomas Berdych: Federer's Gutsy Win Puts Tennis World on Notice
Roger Federer's gutsy victory over Tomas Berdych (3-6, 7-5, 7-5) in the Finals of the Madrid Open is a clear sign that he's a true threat to win at least one Grand Slam in 2012.
His win catapulted him over Rafael Nadal in the World Rankings to give him the No. 2 spot, right below Novak Djokovic, according to ESPN.com.
Both Nadal and Djokovic were unceremoniously given early exits by lesser opponents at the Madrid Open as both men were bothered by the blue clay. Both men have adamantly refused to return to the tournament next year if the organizers don't return the surface back to the traditional red clay, according to Yahoo! Sports.
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This set Federer up for a fantastic chance to respond with the same kind of grace and skill he's been known for during his entire career, and he didn't fail to take full advantage of his opportunity.
Federer overcame the less-than-ideal conditions without once complaining—showing the younger guns on the tour how a true champion deals with adverse conditions.
His victory over Berdych was a masterful display of grit and determination—not to mention pure skill.
Berdych went up big in the first set, hitting 14 winners while only making two unforced errors. Somehow, Federer shrugged off the inevitability of his demise to come back and win the final two sets in grueling fashion.
Both men played their guts out, but Federer's elite ground game was on full display and as dominant as ever. The most impressive aspect of his win was his ability to overcome any and all adversity that he faced. Neither man nor elements could staunch his will to win at the Madrid Open.
Federer is coming off of a month-and-a-half break after losing a heartbreaker to Andy Roddick at the Miami Masters, and the early returns on his rejuvenated game are promising. Coupled with his vast experience and maturity, there isn't any reason to believe he can't win a Grand Slam or two this year.
The tennis world is officially on notice: Federer is back, and he's looking better than ever.
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