3rd time lucky, they say!

Rafael Nadal won his first Wimbledon crown. Roger Federer stood forlornly as the dethroned but graceful champion and king, and probably the best grass player in the Open era or any era, ever.

Lessons learnt from both players:
a) Never never never ever give up. Even when you think and the world thinks you're down and out.
b) Focus focus focus. The goal should be unwavering.
c) You may be genius, but you too are fallible. (Check Roger Federer's unforced errors).
d) Age may be in the mind, but it's in the body too. Speed, agility, tact and some skill can make up for solid experience.
e) But the hunger to do more and excel more is not about age, but ageless. It's an attitude and a part of your DNA.
f) Winning is everything (whether you like it or not - nobody will remember Federer's 5 titles, his wonderful strokes, his will to come back from 2 sets down. Only 'Rafa' 'Rafa' 'Rafa' will be remembered for the victory).
g) Winning may be everything, but lack of skill, attitude, focus and determination won't get you far beyond a few goal posts.
h) Without consistency you are nothing.
i) Never give all of yourself to every fight. Do save the best for last. Ironically you may not get to the last if you don't give your best. So work out the math yourself.
j) Money is definitely not everything. It's just an escalator to a better quality of life. Now what that quality means to different people is different so let's leave it there.
k) Being calm, unruffled and determined under any onslaught and pressure, is the mark of a leader. It's also called grace under pressure.
l) But a show of emotions by leaders and world beaters is also ok. It shows you are human.
m) Never tread on people's bunions when they're limping. (Notice Federer's 'You're ok?' when Rafa grazed his knee and took a tumble. He didn't have to enquire).
n) Respect your greatest opponent and competitor, never underestimate his ability.
o) Be willing to give it your all again and again. Yes, never feel defeated. Just an opportunity lost.

No more. I just know that I wanted FedEx to win his 6th. I feel miserable.

But tomorrow is another day!