Rafael Nadal Will Be Missed at Wimbledon 2009

At the time of this writing, Rafael Nadal has just announced that he will not be competing at Wimbledon. As a Roger Federer fan, I was surprised at my own reaction to this news which was reacting to a loss.

Nadal will definitely be missed by all tennis fans simply for his tenacity, stubbornness, and never-say-die attitude. However, there is much more. 

Like many others, I always appreciate the beauty of Roger Federer's play. However, I have reviewed the Wimbledon final of 2008 and Federer was not the only one making shots that were a thing of beauty to watch. 

Living in a right-handed world and being right-handed, I found watching Nadal make his left-handed shots with topspin simply amazing. 

His shots were like watching a mirrored reflection or something in reverse. It fills me with awe and wonder. 

Nadal's shot-making and his ability to turn a defensive shot into an offensive one will be sorely missed at this year's Wimbledon tournament. 

His exit will threaten to overshadow the Wimbledon finals much the same way his early exit in the French Open did last month. 

A Nadal-less Wimbledon is a loss, because the level of play that he brings to the game might now be quite evident.  It also changes the draw dramatically with Federer now seeded as number one and Murray at number two.

Now is the time to write and send in tributes to Rafa because he is a worthy competitor and he in part, contributed to a thrilling classic which will undoubtedly remain so for a long, long time to come. 

Vamos, Rafa and get well soon!