The just concluded 2012 edition Australian open men’s single final which lasted for almost six hours is now considered as one of the greatest ever grand slam finals.
    The match, played between the world number one- slim built Novak Djokovic and Spain’s world number two- Rafael Nadal, lasted for about six hours, is ranked alongside the greatest of all-time. The high quality of tennis lasted till the end of the physically and mentally gruesome encounter. 
    Both Rafa and Novak have converted the Rod Laver Arena into a Collossium in a night where they smashed the ball at each other with dead precision.  Rallies were extended to dozens of shots; ball was flown into the corners where the opponent is difficult to get. Spirit of the fight has compelled the crowd who reached on Sunday evening and departed on Monday morning to stand and watch rather than sitting on their chairs, on many occasions. Ian McGarry of the BBC radio comments about the fianl "One of the greatest sporting contests I've been privileged to witness. Respect to both players." Truly, both players were gladiators of all sports on Sunday night.
    History says that the first Australian open was played at Warehouseman's Cricket Ground in Melbourne. The final was conducted at Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne Park, few kilometers away from Melbourne Cricket Ground where the Indian team has lost the Boxing Day match against Australia on the fourth day without a fight.
    Team India, facing reputation crisis has to watch the final between the two great players and should remember the many previous occasions when they made big fights overseas. One cannot forget the last tri-nation ODI series in Australia where India was the champion. The team is talented and can win in foreign soil; the only thing it lacks is the fighting spirit. They should closely watch the men’s singles final to cherish how a game is to be played. This is necessary to keep their value as sports persons, but also to keep the fame of the game.

Tags :