Rafael Nadal - The player I simultaneously hate and love
If my life depended on a tennis match - there is only one guy whom I would turn to - Rafael Nadal, because I know for sure that no one will fight like him and win.
Rafa comes to the court like a boxer - jumping, jogging, full of energy. He will have this permanent frown on his face as if he hates everyone and wants to bite their head off. He always aims to win and will fight for every point as if it is the last point of the match. His matches are worth every penny we have spent because it is always exciting and well contested.
To play Nadal one has to be prepared, both mentally and physically. He will get into the opponent's head in the most intimidating manner. He will pump up his fists, he will roar, he will stare him down and he will be the first to be on court, after the break, just to show who is the boss. He will make them angry and in the process help them lose their way. Rafa, of course, possesses an array of super shots that will force the opposing player to run from end to end, leaving him breathless and tired. His incredible shots, fighting spirit, determination, super confidence, tactics - everything - leaves both the opponent and audience in total awe.
He is simply unplayable. But if players are smart enough not to let him and antics affect them and can match his amazing shots and court coverage - then there is always a chance to beat him. But it is only a chance - not an assurance. Anyone playing against him have to win it because he is never going to lose it. Giving up or losing is not in his dictionary.
Audience watching him play against their favourite player will instantly hate him. I do too. Nadal is a perfect example of how a professional player should be. He is hard working, powerful and in great physical shape. He possesses a fantastic temperament and great skills. Despite all his tactics and antics on court, mind you. his behaviour is quite impeccable on court and he never argues or complaints unnecessarily.
No wonder he has gotten himself among the legends of Tennis. We are privileged to witness this super athlete in action and its been a historic career. The 10 French Open titles and many more in his kitty are proof of his work ethics and never say die attitude.
Once the match is over, the true Nadal emerges. We see a complete gentleman who smiles, who is lavish in his praise for his opponent and who is extremely sporting, as he waits patiently for his opponent, to leave the court together. Suddenly he is a sweetheart, whom you feel happy for, if he has won and sorry, if he has lost the game. He smiles like a baby as he takes his trophy. He does smile, with a bit of sadness, in case he is the 2nd best of the day. You cant help but admire this guy and actually love him for what he truly is.
He will never be my most favourite tennis player because that place is occupied by one Mr. Roger Federer. But Nadal will always be my most favourite fighter - a true warrior, who fights till the very end. He is tennis's Knight in Shining Armour and we are lucky to watch him in his full glory with the sole motto of fighting to win.
Image Credits - Google Images
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