Ain't no way they can stop me now
Cause I'm on my way, I can feel my ring coming
It's the blood of a champion, pumping
Deep inside my veins, too much pride to be running
I'ma give what I can and more, even if
My blood, my sweat, and my tears don't mean nothing
It's the heart of a champion in me
-NELLY, Heart of a Champion
Source: www.wimbledon.org/ reuters
The saddest part about rooting for our favorite athletes is that we fail to comprehend the fact that time isnt always there on their side. When Andre Agassi and Rafael Nadal met on center court on saturday. I supported the man who revolutionized the game right from neon cycling shorts to meteoric returns of serve, with over 20 years of professional tennis experience and making his 14th and final wimbledon appearance. Facing this legend, was a twenty year old talent pile, fresh from his victory over the numero uno at Rolland Garros. Rafael Nadal was 2 months old when Andre Agassi made his debut at the US open in 1986 and 6 years old when Agassi won his first grandslam at wimbledon in 1992.
The fact that age prevailed over experience is old news, and Nadal was gracious enough to let the legend get his due. After a few waves to the crowd, signing some autographs and a rare on court interview, the man was gone. His spirit, tenacity and attitude never will.
Quoting Agassi, " I think this was a place that first taught me to respect the sport, really. It's been a privilege to be out there again for one last time. "To say goodbye, for me, this means as much as winning."
So long and thank you for everything you brought into the game, Andre.
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