What was billed as a blockbuster worthy of a men’s singles final in the end turned into an anti-climatix when defending champion Rafael Nadal retired against Britain’s Andy Murray after just 2.5 hours of play. Those 2.5 hours constituted some of the most brilliant tennis I have had the priviledge to watch in what was my first ever night session at Rod Laver Arena.
The first two sets, closely-fought with cat-and-mouse rallies, were top-notch tennis, but after Rafa called for the trainer and subsequently moved gingerly around the court at the beginning of the third, his next move was inevitable with his long history of knee injuries. Murray, however, deserved the win; he rained aces, his backhand was full of venom, and he ran Nadal ragged at times with his impeccable court coverage and even more incredible shot-making.
Naturally, I felt disappointed with the nature of the ending; it’s like the leader of the band calling in sick on the day of a highly-anticipated concert after playing just a few songs =S
But trust me when I say, I’ll watch a five-setter one day =)
