Rafa claims maiden Australian Open Title, leaves Federer sobbing

Spanish World no.1 Rafael Nadal edged fellow Swiss star Roger Federer in a tantalising five-set final in the Australian Open, 2009 at the Melbourne Park here in Sunday.

The game that lasted for almost four and a half hours culminated with sobbing Federer as his bid for record-equalling 14 slam tiltles was thwarted by fellow Spaniard.

Tennis aficionado could not have asked for a better final as the match went for fifth set, eventually claimed by the Spaniard.

Federer looked good until the fifth set but soon was overwhelmed by the muscular play of Nadal.

Even Federer, known for his composure and who barely shows his emotions, could not control his tears rolling from his eyes after the Spaniard claimed the title.

Federer could not believe himself, his game that has given him so much over the years, that Sunday Melboourne crowd and his fate that once again deprived him of that elusive 14 slam tally of another great, Pete Sampras.

For most part of the play, Federer actually beleived he could better Nadal that day.

That thing hurted him the most.

At the presentation ceremony, Federer was quoted as saying, "God it's killing me." That actually told the story.

Showing compassion to arguably the greatest player to have played tennis on earth, Nadal, the new champion, said, "Rog, sorry for today,” adding “I really know how you feel right now. Remember that you are a great champion and you are one of the best in history and you will beat Pete Sampras’ 14 titles for sure.”

I guess that didn't help Federer either.

Having remained as a World no. 1 for almost five long years, having dominated the world as never before, I guess Federer has been devastated by this defeat.

He just loves the sport so much, this defeat means so much for him.

As every champion has this attribute of hitting back hard, i do believe that the Swiss Maestro will turn the tables in Wimbledon later this month.

He has been the undisputed champion in grass, so he definitely will fancy his chance at the All-England Championship this year, and hopefully equal Sampras.

Anyway, thats the way life goes. Everyday is not a Sunday, not even for the maestro himself.