Most significant match in many years

Clearly, both players are going to accomplish much more down the line, but this match has been set up now to be something very special. I can't remember a match that in terms of significance in tennis history that this match is set up to be. One player playing for the all time record of 7 french opens, the other playing for 4 slams in a row and tying Laver. Because of the historical signficance of the match alone it is special. But because this match is so integral to who will finish the season as world #1 as well. If Nadal loses he will have virtually no chance of regaining the number 1 ranking this year. If Djokovic wins he pretty much seals it.

But for Nadal more than Djokovic this match with his recent difficulties with Novak takes on a psychological context as well. He has just retaken the initiative in their rivlary. He has won two in a row on his beloved dirt. To now lose the biggest clay court match of his life to Novak Djokovic would be devestating. That is another reason this match is the most significant match in years even before a ball is struck. It could be tectonic shift like wimby in 2008. Nadal will be left with the terrible feeling of having been beaten 4 times in a row in slams by his nearest rival. That is a terrible streak for any player mentally no matter how many slams and how much money they have.

For Djokovic it is huge he may never have a chance at a record this golden and plum ever again. To become Laverovic would be something that both Nadal and Fed failed to do. As did Sampras and Wilander before them. This record alone would be a huge cornerstone of his legacy. That is why we are seeing the bizarre behavior of Fed fans who till last week were trashing Nadal and talking junk on him to actually root for Nadal against Djoko. I take attacks by Fed fans and wishes of Nole's losses by them as a great sign of respect. While Novak has a lot to win in the future and will rebound one way or the other he may not get a chance at this great of a tennis record again. A record that would allow him to say that he is one of only two living men to accomplish the feat. And the other one is laver.

So this is why we love tennis or one of the reasons. Big rivalry match, in a slam, soaked with historical significance. I honestly don't know how the players handle it, I am nervous wreck and the match isn't till tomorrow. Because ladies and gentlemen this is a historically signficant match you are about to see. Like it or not regardless of the closeness of the match or quality there is so much at stake. Now if both players turn it into a dogfight like AO of this year then the match will become even more significant. Enjoy everyone, all tennis fans, and good luck to both competitors.

This RG final will be the beginning of Nole's road to his destined GOAThood.

Only true because of Nadal, Federers been here a few times.