The Best? Federer [col. writ. 9/9/07] (c) '07 Mumia Abu-Jamal Folks know that I'm a tennis fan, as evinced by my pieces on the magnificent Williams sisters, who have singularly transformed the game. But, in men's tennis, there's one name that equates to the best in the game: Swiss player Roger Federer. He played an outstanding game against 20-year old Serbian phenom, Novak Djokovic. Djokovic stunned the tennis world recently when he beat three of the top players of the game; Andy Roddick, Rafael Nadal, and Roger Federer, just weeks before the U.S. Open. Federer would best the young Serb in straight sets, and by so doing, set a standard not seen since Big Bill Tilden won consecutive titles in the U.S. championships, back in the 1920's. In the first 2 sets, Federer actually came from behind to win. In the second set, Djokovic led him by 4 games to 1; only to see Federer utilize his serve to inch his way back by tying him and then dominating in the second tie break. Truly, Roger Federer is a Master of this game. With moves described as ballet-like, 11 aces, and a brutal return game, Federer outclassed a game young opponent by scores of 7-8, 7-6, and 6-4. In the world of sport, this 12-time grand slam champion is in a class of one. --(c) '07 maj
