Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal in Madrid: Come On!

If my aunt had a mustache, she would have been my uncle—that is how the saying goes. Roger Federer beat Rafael Nadal fair and square, deploying a strategy, rushing to the net, using laser sharp forehands, excellent volleys, and newly mastered drop shots. Federer simply played better than Nadal.

Let us learn to give credit when it is due, instead of talking hypotheticals. This is not about whether or not this victory will lead Federer to get his career golden slam. I felt that Nadal fans started crying when their hero lost as if the victory by Federer was not deserved because "their champ" was "tired."

But where were these fans when Nadal beat Federer at the Australian Open after playing for more than five hours against Verdasco in semi-final? Looks as if a new rule has to be made that finalists should be "equally tired" to decide the real winner! The argument about the court favoring Federer is also strange because until this Sunday, Nadal had beaten Federer on all surfaces.

According to Federer, he has been working extremely hard, and one could see the improvement when playing against Nadal since his semi-final exit at Rome a couple of weeks ago. His forehand shots, serve placements, volleys, and drop shots are almost perfect now.

So, his victory over Nadal at Madrid was aided by his hard work and preparation.

On the other hand, Federer also said that Rafael will not be affected by this loss and will be rock solid in Paris. That is a true champion. Now, while the victory will certainly will be a shot in the arm for Federer mentally—it does not help more than that! 

Let us learn to appreciate what happened instead of cribbing about all the "if's" and what "could/should/would" have happened!

Let us not take away the pleasure of a winner.