My final post: good bye, everyone
Hi everyone,
This is my last blog post from Wimbledon. I have to be realistic and I don't think I will be able to do it tomorrow. On Monday I am flying early in the morning to Stuttgart and tomorrow win or lose it will be impossible to do it. If I win (please, please) I will be going to the winners party/dinner that the club organizes and logically I won't have time. If I lose then I will be packing everything (got a lot of luggage, as always) and I will be together with my family. In any case I have an early flight on Monday morning.
Coming to today, it has been quite a busy morning. I practiced for 2 hours. Initially it was going to be a smoother practice but I wasn't feeling that great hitting the ball and decided to practice a bit more with my uncle Toni and a player from Menorca called Nacho Coll. I know him for some time, he is in the Balearic Tennis Centre and he is around to pay some future events. I use to hit with him sometimes when we are in Mallorca. After that I had a lot of media obligations with Press Conference, TV interviews and a get together with the Spanish media that follow me around the different tournaments.
In the afternoon I just stayed at the house with my family, my team, playing cards, playing darts and some play station. Quite and relaxed day just not thinking about tomorrow. Over dinner my uncle Toni and I talked a bit about tomorrow's match and on how to play. What you call a tactics chat. This is the way we do it. Sometimes Toni gives me some advices, some things to think about. He preferred to share those things tonight so I can think about them instead of tomorrow morning when the match is closer. We don't have a fixed procedure and today it as like this.
My parents went out for dinner with their friends and we stayed at home. Apart from Toni, also Rafa Maymo, Tuts, my sister, my uncle Rafael, and Benito. We cooked one of those dishes of pasta with shrimps and mushrooms and stayed calm.
To finish with this, I wanted now to thank this paper for having me doing this blog and you specially for following it, reading it and hopefully enjoy some of the things I say. My job is not to write but to play tennis and that's what I do better. Definitely writing is not my best thing. I suppose you noticed it.
Many thanks again and hope to do this again soon
¡enhorabuena!
great tennis, great match. Rafa, you are very good blogger! thank you for shareing your thoughts with us, except your joy today :(
take care of yourself! all the best... m
Posted by: mish | 7 Jul 2008 00:47:24
It was fantastic!
Thank you Rafa!!
Posted by: Hyb | 7 Jul 2008 00:47:26
Congrats Rafa!!!! You did it! Well done.
Posted by: Haf | 7 Jul 2008 00:49:33
Hola Nadal!<3<3
Gotta say: CONGRATULATIONS FOR YOUR FIRST GRANDSLAM-TITLE!!!
I almost cried when you cried...Oh my, you were SOOO cute...I believed in you from the beginning to the end...but Federer scared me...well by the way, you are SO handsome...Viva la Espana for the EM 2008 and Viva la Nadal for your title and your hair:D
Te quiero<3
Posted by: Edina | 7 Jul 2008 00:59:23
Congratulations, Rafa!
Posted by: Tavi | 7 Jul 2008 01:00:20
CONGRATS Rafa - you deserve the best!!!
Posted by: Alyssa | 7 Jul 2008 01:00:47
Thank you so much for doing the blog!
And Thank you for reminding all of us fans why our hearts start and stop as we watch every point you play!
Vamos Rafa!
Posted by: Virginia (Canada) | 7 Jul 2008 01:05:33
Your game was the best I've ever seen. And your way of winning - such a gentleman! - should be an example to everyone. We love you all the way from Oregon!
Posted by: Eva | 7 Jul 2008 01:15:33
CONGRATULATIONS, AND GOODBYE FOR NOW, RAFA! YOU ARE A GREAT ATHLETE AND A WONDERFUL HUMAN BEING! XO
Posted by: Anne Wilson | 7 Jul 2008 01:22:51
A memorable blog from Rafa and of course an even more memorable Wimbledon 2008. Congratulations to the most deserving champion for many a year. It would be marvellous to read just one more entry to Rafa's blog... "How it feels to hold the Wimbledon trophy at last". Enhorabuena Rafa
Posted by: Bee | 7 Jul 2008 01:50:41
Rafa, we know youre very modest, but your blogs gave your fans a lt of insight into your world. Great job!! You had an awesome tournament and deserved your first Wimbledon title. Hope you keep your hunger and win plenty more. Youre an inspiration to kids, disabled, hardworkers and to relentless fighting spirit everywhere.
Posted by: Badri | 7 Jul 2008 01:58:39
Congrats! What a victory. This was the best match I have ever seen in my life
Posted by: Vivek | 7 Jul 2008 02:03:23
Congratulations Rafa!! It is fantastic that you write for this blog and EVEN BETTER that you also WON!!! You are an absolute joy (although I must say it was stressful today) to watch!!!! Thank you!!!!!
Posted by: Niki | 7 Jul 2008 02:03:39
BEST FINAL EVER!!! Rafa, you are such a tenacious person, an incredible athlete and great tennis player. Both you and Roger played an excellent match, but you certainly deserved this. I am exhausted just from cheering for you and going through the highs, lows and rain delays of this match (my mum also!) :-)
You're insights in the blog and questions throughout have been brilliant and I thank you (and The Times 'Blog Brigade'!) so much for taking the time. Loved it. Enjoy that trophy and I wish you continued success, happiness and growth, little star x
Posted by: gill-leone | 7 Jul 2008 02:04:12
Well a post with your reactions following winning would have been nice. We would have waited a few days for it.
Well done anyway Rafa. Loving your blog and hoping you aren't too important to do them the rest of the year. A US open one would be nice you know.
Posted by: Vickie | 7 Jul 2008 02:04:57
You did win and it was the best win I have ever seen. Rafa you make everyone here who support you proud. You played the best game against the best opponent and you won. Gracias Rafa, we love you.
Posted by: veronicaromm | 7 Jul 2008 02:07:07
Felicitaciones Rafa on your Wimbledon title. Was a great match and I felt privileged to witness it live.
I think you did a really good job with this blog actually and I enjoyed reading it, so thanks for doing the blog.
Best wishes for the rest of the season.
Posted by: Jennifer, London | 7 Jul 2008 02:10:47
Rafa, you did it!!!!!!!!!!! My heart was in my throat the entire fifth set and my stomach left the building entirely. WOW! Thank you for giving such a great effort and giving tennis fans such a thrilling match! Take care of yourself, rest up, and we'll be following you all through the upcoming hard court season, including the Olympics. Love you, Rafa!!
Posted by: Mary | 7 Jul 2008 02:42:33
Congratulations, Rafa! Bravo! Vamos Rafa! Vamos!
Posted by: Allie | 7 Jul 2008 02:42:35
Rafael Nadal you proved to everyone you deserved to win Wimbledon. You trained so well, it looked like you were a new man. I am thrilled to have seen you make history today. Adios Amigo
Posted by: veronicaromm | 7 Jul 2008 02:46:12
Congratulations Rafa!!
Euro 08 and now this. Spain is going to be in a frenzy!! It was 5:30am here in Tokyo when all was done, but I am so glad I stayed up. It was an awsome match!! And to see you lift that trophy... wow!! So happy.
I hope your good run will rub off on Real Madrid too.
Posted by: Amy in Tokyo | 7 Jul 2008 02:50:57
Dear Rafa, the champion!!!
Finally, I am sooooooooooo glad to say one more BIG CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!! You're a fantastic player, indeed, and no one can forget today's match for ever...that was amazing, really. Although all the Japanese fans need more sleep tonight(as it was finished 5.30am), we are so happy to have witnessed this historic win and seen your BIG smile :-D
Although it must have been so hard for you, physically and mentally, you kept writing for us. We all much appreciate your effort and they help us to understand you a bit more and feel you much closer. You said you are not the writer, but they are more than enough to know you better, your "real" personality, like the words; modest, humble, honest, respectable, and so on...
Thank you so much once again, Rafa. You have given us excitement and courage a lot.
Please take care, and keep on going.
iiiVamos, Rafa, el Campeon!!!
Posted by: chocolate desde Japon | 7 Jul 2008 02:51:59
Rafa, congratulations on your win!! You are definitely the king of all athletes, the champion of our hearts. You never gave up, even during the toughest part of your match with Roger. I think many of us cried along with you when Roger's forehand went into the net.
There were times during the last two sets where I thought if this were just an ordinary player playing against Roger, he would've called it quits. But we all know you are not an ordinary player. So, congratulations, campeón!
I am so glad you wrote this blog, and I think you did quite well in articulating what is going on in the life of Rafa during these two weeks.
Stay humble, stay hungry. You've only opened up the road to all kinds of glories... And have fun at the ball tonight!!!! Vamos, campeón!!
Posted by: u2onair | 7 Jul 2008 02:54:33
Go Rafa, congratulations and well done. Brilliant match of two gentlemen and giants of the game. Wishing you many more wins ahead and thank you for letting us peek into the life of a champion.
Hola!
Posted by: fra | 7 Jul 2008 03:24:23
Thank you for a great match against Roger today--it was one everyone will remember forever, and I look forward to watching it again and again during future Wimbledon rain delays!
New York is looking forward to seeing you and Roger again at the U.S. Open--good luck, and thanks for sharing part of your life with your fans by blogging.
Posted by: NYCist | 7 Jul 2008 04:11:05
congratulations rafa! that was a spectacular match! you made history and we know it's a dream come true for you. we're having a toast to your win! :) viva rafa!
Posted by: anna hernandez | 7 Jul 2008 04:19:56
Wow, what a spectacular match today!! I could not be more thrilled for your victory! It was an incredible, epic battle that will go down in history as one of the greatest matches of all time, and that you won it was the icing on the cake (albeit delicious icing!)! I can't imagine what the future holds for you, but I can't wait to enjoy the ride as you inevitably continue to do magnificent things! Felicitaciones a usted y todo su familia, y disfrute su victoria espectacular!!
Posted by: Sydney | 7 Jul 2008 04:31:52
Rafa,
greetings from Jakarta, Indonesia!
great match on sunday, and i was happy to see you win. Roger is a great player, but you are a great player as well! it's about time that you win the wimbledon, and i'm glad you did! Congratulations!! i can't wait for you to become no.1!!
Posted by: Marisa | 7 Jul 2008 04:32:08
Congratulations, Rafa, from the bottom of my heart. I envy those who witness history too night watching you live, seeing you sink your teeth into the golden trophy. It will be a life experience hard to forget. I think I better arrange to see next year's FO final live ASAP. I wish you have time to relax and catch some "big ones" after Stuggart. Good luck there. P.S. Your are a great Champion like Roger. We loved you in California.
Posted by: rafa4ever | 7 Jul 2008 04:34:39
Nadal best wishes, you ave always been a winner. God bless you. luna_llena188
Posted by: M. Luna | 7 Jul 2008 04:35:03
Estimado Rafa:
La semana pasada, I said the cheering you hear in NYC would be for the new Wimbledon champion.
We have a saying here:
“I told you so.” :D
¡Señoras y Señores – Su Campeón de Wimbledon 2008!
¡¡¡VAMOS EL CAMPEÓN!!!
*throws flowers*
(P.S. Rafa -- before you come to be our guest in NYC, please ask your physio about infrared for your knees and wrists – in advance of hardcourts, and to protect your mighty topspin. Por si acaso.)
Posted by: Ega | 7 Jul 2008 04:36:02
RAFA!!!!! congratulations. i am so so so so so so so happy. i think i was more nervous than u and roger put together throughout the match and i couldn't bring myself to watch it in the last few moments of the 5th set. i just sat in front of the tv with my eyes closed and prayed and prayed, hehe.
you deserve it rafa. it was probably the most amazing match i've ever seen. i didn't think it could be better than last year's but it was.
enjoy the moment, and all the best for the upcoming tournaments!
Posted by: sangeetoe | 7 Jul 2008 04:47:46
aww rafa i will miss you so much and your blogs. it was really nice of you and the people from the Times online to let you write the blogs here. But guess what?? YOU WON!!! i was praying so hard and i even cried when you won!
vamos rafa!! you are the best.
just hope to meet you sometime. Good luck in future. you have played very well. it shows ur determination and spirit!!.
muy bien y te quiero muchhhhhooooooo
muahhh
Posted by: mehwish | 7 Jul 2008 05:02:49
The final was amazing, Rafa! I'm so happy that your dream came true. I hope to see you when you come to the USA.
I hope you have many more excellent years at Wimbledon.
Posted by: Marlana | 7 Jul 2008 05:04:54
Congratulations to Rafa. Here's a little poem I wrote about the final:
THE GLORY OF COMBAT
What a magnificent moment in tennis today,
Almost five hours total … a record they say.
The world’s greatest venue; the world’s two best players;
One pumped up and sleeveless ... one refined, dressed in layers.
In the end, both these champions gave it their all,
But one had to win and one had to fall.
Roger’s five trophies have etched him in time,
He’ll feel this loss, but he’s still in his prime.
He’ll emerge in a few weeks, ready for battle,
And he’ll choose to make light of the press and the prattle.
His character strengthened, he’ll welcome the fight,
And be classy and confident, smart and polite.
As for Rafael’s fate, it would not be denied,
He held on to his nerve … his time had arrived.
He showed us his power, his speed and his grit
And the proud Spanish spirit that would not let him quit.
In the cool evening air, Rafa’s smile was glorious,
His flag o’er his shoulders … happy … victorious.
Once again, these two men on that Wimbledon court,
Made us all very proud to be part of this sport.
Posted by: highpockets | 7 Jul 2008 05:32:39
Congratulations!! A brilliant win...
I watched the French Open when in Madrid with friends... and today's win in Vancouver,
Canada.
I can not express the joy I have for your fantastic spirit and talent!
My wish is for many more!
All good things,
Ann
Posted by: Ann Coombs | 7 Jul 2008 05:38:03
Congratulations Rafa.
Your mentality is fantastic. To be so amazing and yet overcome the great Roger mentally, you are the best athlete in the world - physically, mentally and spiritually.
You will definitely win UsOpen and AusOpen, and grow much more. There is nothing that can stop you, because you believe so strongly and work so hard.
I am your fan for life. Vamos Rafa !!!
Posted by: Felix | 7 Jul 2008 05:52:41
CONGRATS RAFA!!! YOU ARE TRULY AMAZING! YOU SHOWED THEM THAT YOU'RE NOT JUST THE KING OF CLAY....YOU'RE NOW THE KING OF GRASS!!! VAMOS RAFA! SO PROUD OF YOU!!! YOU DESERVE IT....
Posted by: Abbey | 7 Jul 2008 05:53:08
The time has came and Nadal took it by force. Congrats to the new Champion, I was rooting for you all the way. I knew you could do it, even though I knew it would be harder than anything I've ever dreamed of. Watching you play makes me want to get back into tennis again and try to prove to myself and friends that I still have what it takes. And to make it all better, this match has made it clear, I will go pick up Top Spin 3 ASAP. Only problem is, Rafael Nadal is not on the Xbox 360 and only the PS3. However, I will create the great man and build him up. Thanks for the incredible match, I know I will never see one better, unless it involves you of course :)...
Posted by: Casey | 7 Jul 2008 05:55:29
Rafa, im a Federer fan, but i gotta say brilliant match, i was watching it, here in Australia, we stood up late... i really gotta give it to you man, exceptional tennis... you never gave up, chased after every ball and only got broken once
Bravo Rafa, standing ovation
Posted by: Yashutosh Joshi | 7 Jul 2008 06:36:29
Good work RAFA.......wen u won the final...it even left me cryin...such an incredible tennis you produced....i love you....
Posted by: Taha Ansari | 7 Jul 2008 06:48:40
I am completely full of joy that you won. You won. You won. Wimbledon. The pictures in the dark with that trophy are so gloriously beautiful.
Thank you for writing this blog.
Posted by: Tosin | 7 Jul 2008 06:55:56
Rafa! Cogratulations! You deserved it so much, I couldn't be happier for you :) The match was so hard, but in the end was all worth it... I have to say, It was impossible not to cry. Thanks for been this amazing man, an example of determination and modesty. Thanks for never giving up! And also, thanks for making time to your fans... You're great! Vamos Campeón!
Posted by: Iara, Brazil | 7 Jul 2008 07:07:35
You will be missed but we will continue to follow your matchs. It makes me a little sad because as you said for football matches I had taken the habit of reading the blog every day ... I wish you good luck for the continuation! I believe in you. You are the best!!
Posted by: Monica | 7 Jul 2008 07:08:36
I dragged my family home early from a game reserve for this match and all I can say is FANTASTIC!!! Rafa you were awesome, I ve watched you over the last 3 years and said you would do it after last years final, knew you would after the French and after almost having a stroke watching last night, you did it in superb style. Well done, congratulations!!!!!
Posted by: Renay Bellingham | 7 Jul 2008 07:16:30
Congratulations Rafa on a wonderful wonderful win.
All the best for Olympics and the US hardcourt season.
Posted by: Bhargav | 7 Jul 2008 07:36:23
Just amazing. Some of the most athletic sport I have ever had the pleasure of watching. Both players could not have done more, what a privilige to have watched. Congratulations.
Posted by: caroline | 7 Jul 2008 07:37:42
too bad you didn't write your last one after an incredible yesterday's win! congratulations,rafa,man you are the best!!!
Posted by: Maria | 7 Jul 2008 07:47:55
What a great win Rafa! You truly deserved it! The best final i have ever seen. It was truly difficult for you and i am so hapy you kept up your spirits to go on to win it. And it's humbling how you remain so down to earth and focused on your game. You now return home with the trophy and thousands and thousands of more fans. Well done
Posted by: lucy | 7 Jul 2008 07:56:52
CONGRATULATIONS RAFA!!! What a match, and what a fantastic result. I truly believe if rain hadn't stopped play you would have done it in straight sets, but then again the drama just added to the occasion.
I took so much stick from my friends for supporting you as I am in Scotland and they all back Andy Murray, but you are in a different league - soon to be No 1 I'm sure. It's been a pleasure to read your blog - best wishes always.
Posted by: Joyce, Glasgow | 7 Jul 2008 07:57:02
Hey Nadal.....U did it...
U did it wonderfully...
-srinu
Posted by: srinivas reddy | 7 Jul 2008 08:07:27
You might feel you don't write as well as you play - but reading your blog has been such a great insight into the behind the scenes aspects of Wimbledon. Please come back and do it again next year...
Oh and about the match yesterday - absolutely amazing - congratulations on your win!
Posted by: Lorraine | 7 Jul 2008 08:15:34
What a match!!! Wonderfully played tennis, Rafa! This is the beginning of a new era! I was exhausted just from sitting on the couch all day...
Posted by: Michael | 7 Jul 2008 08:18:55
Dear Rafa, I wanted you so much to win this title and you did. I am so happy for you !! But what a sunday afternoon it was. I cannot remember the day I ever screamed so much watching a tennis match, or any match that is (my husband had a great time watching me). This was the best tennis I have ever seen. You are a true champion in every way. Thank you so much for this blog and take care.
Posted by: gerda | 7 Jul 2008 08:25:35
Greatest tennis I've seen, Rafa! You're just incredible - I love, how you manage to stay focused and never keep up.
My hands were trembling and sweating as I watched the game. I'm so happy for you, you deserved it so much.
Posted by: Anne | 7 Jul 2008 08:33:46
Well, guess what! You won! And you were amazing to watch. You made us all Spaniards proud, and I think everyone knows you deserved it more.
Muchos besos!
x
Posted by: Regina | 7 Jul 2008 08:37:40
Congratulations... all the way from India. It was a hard match and I hope your knee is alright. You deserved to win yesterday because you were the better player and were in top form. It's incredible how much your game has matured and you're one of the most intelligent players I've ever seen! Espana should be proud :)
And you're a good writer as well.. don't worry ;)
Posted by: Devika | 7 Jul 2008 08:37:47
HUGE CONGRATS RAFA! Not sure if this will go through since Wimbledon is over and you are the CHAMPION!! I was so nervous, I had knots in my stomach during some of those tie breakers, I can only imagine how your family felt! You definitely have an extremely strong mental strength on and off the court.
BEST OF LUCK TO YOU!!
LUV U,
Cheryl
Posted by: Cheryl | 7 Jul 2008 08:43:28
Parabéns Rafael!
Tonight when i came from Spain and watched the news in the Net and one big part of the game i stayed very happy for you.I was in Isla mágica and like i had told you i was going to do it, I made a wish in the top of the towers"that a guy with a strong unusual potencial wins a match" and he did it.Your hapiness is my hapiness today because i always belived in you .Yesterday i saw the player in Roland Garros no sorry even better and it was all i was waiting for you to do,its an emotion difficult to explain.You could not be a writer but you always have been sincere in your words and that is more important than the best writing you can read, you were just being yourself.On last thing my advice..."Rafael continue to be the person you are and continue to grow day after day because every day is a new day and we always have something to learn, be humbble and never forget the persons who helped you on your way, thank them much as you can is the best gift you can show to a person.And what about me i´m just a girl who wish you could came to Portugal play a match for me to see in person your qualities in the court and why i belive in you all over the years.You are and will continue to be no matter what my tennis player number one, i admire you very much.Taking your last words i hope you write soon again.Take care lovely Rafael:).Cristina. Portugal
Posted by: Cristina Martins | 7 Jul 2008 08:49:44
Congratulations Rafa! What an amazing victory! I went through so many emotions watching the match, I'm sure all of us did too. I stayed up all night and morning (11pm until 6:30am the next morning!) to watch you re-write history yet again. You are the best champion this sport has ever had. Vamos Campeón!
Thanks for writing (dictating) the blog for the past 2 weeks, it was an enjoyable read. I tried making the pasta with gambas and mushroom yesterday... :)
Posted by: Loretta | 7 Jul 2008 08:58:47
Congrats Rafa. Had a wonderful time yesterday evening watching you two play what is arguably the best Tennis match I've ever had the privileged to witness.
Well done!
Posted by: Jon | 7 Jul 2008 09:00:21
Congrats Rafa!! What a match? If I could feel so proud by just supporting you and forecasting you as the winner among my friends who all wanted Roger to win, I can imagine how a "Top of the world" experience it might have been for you. Continue the good show and grab US open as well. Cheers!!!!!
Posted by: Vijay | 7 Jul 2008 09:05:00
Cannot say how excited we were to see you win yesterday! An absolute jaw-dropping performance, we have been following you for 3 years now and knew this was your time. Am also so pleased that our four young children are such fans as we admire your conduct on and off court as much as your amazing athletic ability. Thanks for everything!
Posted by: Elaine Derrane | 7 Jul 2008 09:08:07
I am not keen about Tannis, but I traced this match from beginning to the end, see if Frederer can take the 6th champianship or not, on the other hand I was your fan in this game (I like challengers) today, July6-7. I saw how the greatest 2 handle this great stress, hornstly, I thought Frederer surely win, he is so calm, he is mentally bettle, I thought, without a doult until my favor moment of 2008 came, YOU WIN MATE!!! YEAH!! YEAH!! YEAH!! YEAH!! YEAH!!That's life mate! GO NADAL!
Posted by: LeeZone | 7 Jul 2008 09:15:31
I am still reeling from the most wonderful match. I knew you would fight to the end Rafa, like a Torro. I always felt that this was your time and destined for you this year but watching it was beyond words. Te quiero mucho. Linda
Posted by: Linda Linnane | 7 Jul 2008 09:25:54
Your dream comes true.
Vamos Rafa I'm still crying
Posted by: Dubravka | 7 Jul 2008 09:27:58
what a fantastic match I was exhausted after you won I hardly slept the night before I was so excited congratulations well done I knew you could do it this year and the way you are going you will be one of the all time greats I have seen you improve year by year. I will watch how you play during this year and cheer you on thanks for taking the time to write the blog
Jane jersey channel isles
Posted by: j sutcliffe | 7 Jul 2008 09:29:35
Congratulations. Never was there a more deserving champion. You are inspirational. I hope you have many more wins at Wimbledon x
Posted by: Ali | 7 Jul 2008 09:32:34
I've been a fan of yours for many years and I am so unbelievably happy and proud of you for the match you played yesterday. You really deserved it after working so hard for so many years and staying so humble throughout. There has never been any ego, but always so much class in everything you do. It took an incredible champion to lead Federer by two sets in the first place, it took an unbelievable champion to brush aside those match points and Federer's improved play and to come back to win and most of all, it took an unbelievable champion to stand there at the end and give such a heartfelt speech of respect about your opponent. What a match and you are such a worthy winner. Good luck for the hard courts and thank you so much for the blog.
Posted by: Sophia | 7 Jul 2008 09:48:42
Rafa, congratulations on a fantastic win. I can remember watching the first Borg McEnroe match like it was yesterday and though that match was fabulous, yours was even better. The best thing about you Rafa is that you are such a great role model: Amazingly talented, but also very modest and such a good sportsman. You make the world a better place with your example. Felicitats noi!!!
Posted by: Jaume | 7 Jul 2008 09:52:40
Rafa, you are a true warrior and an amazing inspiration! Yesterday you displayed the beautiful essense of what the human spirit is about. You are nothing short of beautiful, inside and out! A definite Ace in my book.
Posted by: Nita | 7 Jul 2008 10:09:45
Rafa, if you keep improving your tennis like that, you will become the best tennis player ever. Those who said you were good only on clay must admit you are the best even on grass. For God's sake, you have won Wimbledon! Keep on playing like you did yesterday, and the World No. 1 will be yours this summer. The key is the U.S. Open. If you won it (which would mean three Grand Slams in a row) you could reach the number one.
Vamos, campeón. En el abierto americano tienes que tumbar también a Djokovic!
Posted by: Oliver | 7 Jul 2008 10:21:19
Fantastic win Rafa, what a match.
Congratulations on being the new Wimbledon Champion, it was such a great sight to see you lift that trophy.
Next year too, I hope! :-)
Posted by: Anna | 7 Jul 2008 10:22:18
Thanks Rafa for an epic final. You are a truly great champion and have taken tennis to new heights. And you proved afterwards what a great sportsman and gentleman you are too. I'm not actually a great tennis fan, but that final with Federer was one of the greatest sporting contests I have ever witnessed.
Posted by: Tony | 7 Jul 2008 10:31:59
Congrats Nadal......... I feel very happy as if one of our family members have won the Wimbledon........A bunch of flowers from an elder sister from Mumbai, India
Posted by: L Solomon | 7 Jul 2008 10:33:09
you were unbelievable on the court! i had a gut feeling that you'd win! well .. congratulation! you so deserved to win! i had a lump in my throat when you won the last point and fell on the court! you're truly amazing! keep up the effort! i wish all the happiness in the world for you and i'm sure there are many more of such moments coming your way! good luck <3
x
Posted by: ketaki | 7 Jul 2008 10:36:31
You did it and I knew you would - although it was agony to watch! I was in tears at the 3 other championship points and God knows how you managed to keep your head but you did. You are the new King and long may you reign, enjoy your moment!
How do you manage to keep so level headed and utterly charming at the same time as playing such brilliant tennis? And you look gorgeous too!
Posted by: Alexa | 7 Jul 2008 10:48:02
What a unbelievable match yesterday! Rafa, you are going to be number one!!! Enjoy the winning feelings and good luck in Stuttgart!!!
Vamos!!!!!
Posted by: Lotte | 7 Jul 2008 10:48:08
Great Rafa !!! .Thanks for everything !!!
Posted by: Kannappan | 7 Jul 2008 10:54:41
Even though I was backing Federer- and I'm upset he didn't win. You truly deserved the title; you both played fantastically.
Thanks for your blog, it was a great insight into the world of tennis!
Mucho apreció a mi amigo.
Posted by: Izzy D | 7 Jul 2008 11:12:07
Wow... I just... wow. This was so beautifully intense, I have no words to describe it. This was the most beautiful moment you've ever made me live. Ever. And that's saying a lot. I was right there with you, Rafa. I fell on my knees, at the same time you did. I've never stopped believing you would win this, I've known for a long time, but when it happened... wow. It was truly incredible.
CONGRATULATIONS, Rafa for the most beautiful, emotional, epic win EVER!! They say you marked history there, that's what they say, and it's true, it's incredible, and it amazes me. But to me, the most important thing, the reason why I was so overwhelmed with emotion, is that you made your childhood dream come true. You won with your guts and with your heart and your beautiful talent, you've worked so hard for this, and you deserved it a hundred times over.
Most of all I wanna say THANK YOU. Thank you, thank you, thank you. A million times. What I lived there - it helps me so damn much. I hope you have at least a little idea of the impact you have on your fans. Your courage has helped me through tough times, and it still does.
And I also hope you'll do it again. Win Wimbledon, that is. ;) And write a blog of course. I loved reading it. :D
Posted by: Aurelie | 7 Jul 2008 11:14:16
Congratulations Rafa you and Roger both played so well, it was an amazing match .
I have also really enjoyed reading your blog too!
Best of luck for everything!
Posted by: Ayla | 7 Jul 2008 11:17:02
Congrats Rafa on a fantastic match. It was definitely the best tennis match I have seen. Well done!
Posted by: Paul | 7 Jul 2008 11:23:45
Congratulations! What a match!The perfect match with the perfect ending!Loved every moment of it! Breathtaking tennis! You guys both are the best things that have happened to tennis! Congratulations CHAMPION!!!!!!!
Posted by: M:-) | 7 Jul 2008 11:31:07
Stunning Rafa! It was the best Men's final ever. How you managed to keep your composure and focus I just don't know. You are very special to the game of Tennis and I hope to watch you win many more titles over the years. Good luck and take care of yourself.
Posted by: Shani H | 7 Jul 2008 11:32:52
Amazing game, fantastic match! I knew you'd make it... You're young and have the love for the game. Your perseverance was the key to your success. And I love your sportsmanship. Enhorabuena! BRAVO!
Posted by: Dell | 7 Jul 2008 11:39:05
Felicitaciones! An absolutely thrilling final but I missed the end because I just had to catch a train. For 1.5 hrs I was in a state of extreme suspense because I wanted you to win so badly. Imagine my joy and relief when I got home and saw you on TV with the trophy. I am an EFL (and Spanish) teacher so would love to give you English lessons but I would hate you to lose your charming spanish accent! Saludos y hasta el ano proximo!
Posted by: Antonia | 7 Jul 2008 11:46:46
oh my god rafa, u did it, i was in tears, i am a great fan of yours and always will be, what a final you gave us, one that will always be remembered, and the best outcome was that you WON, you are the best. i love you x x x x
Posted by: Rosanaara | 7 Jul 2008 11:53:05
Well done Rafa. I supported Roger, but in the end had to admit that your time has come now. And what a match for one champ to make way for the next on grass. You are a true gentleman single's champion!
Posted by: Cobus | 7 Jul 2008 12:10:21
Congratulations! It was an amazing match, the best that I had ever seen… I am really happy for your victory and just want to say that I`m sure that you will became THE NUMBER ONE soon!
Once again Congratulation! You deserve that…!
Posted by: Daniela | 7 Jul 2008 12:18:43
Rafa, well done! Your match with Roger was fantastic. I knew from the beginning that this would be your year and you made it. Many thanks for sharing your thoughts with all your devoted fans. We wish you many more wins at Wimbledon.
Posted by: Claudia Bultman | 7 Jul 2008 12:22:29
What an amazing match! I'm still on a high after watching it, at the edge of my seat, nails bitten to the quick, and my mother trying to calm me down as I shouted at the television last night. This was so much better for me than Liverpool winning the Champions League in 2005, another amazing live event! I was crying with emotion when you broke Federer's serve in the final set, as I knew then that you had won it (although the final game was a nail-biter too!)
Congratulations Rafa, your determination, hard work, love of tennis, down-to-earthness and graciousness are truly inspiring!
Posted by: Eimear | 7 Jul 2008 12:45:53
Congratulations rafa!! I knew you could do it..and thanks for writing the blog!:)
Posted by: louise | 7 Jul 2008 12:55:41
Most extraordinary tactics I've ever seen on court... your unique back hand manoeuvres had me glued to the match till the very end. I immensely enjoyed watching you and Federer play like champions....Victory Vibrations coming your way @'-'@
Posted by: Sonal Scott | 7 Jul 2008 13:14:04
Congratulations!!!!
Well done on winning! It was wonderful to watch you play- i only started to support you this year after seeing you play the first match!
You definitely deserved to win! Well done!!You have done a good job on the blog-it has been interesting to read what you do and how you feel.
See you next year!
:-)
Posted by: siarah | 7 Jul 2008 13:15:41
WooooW...what a match! The greatest match Ive ever seen! And what a player Rafa is...The greatest player I've ever seen.! Rafa's as strong mentally that physically, and that what makes him a great champion...
Congratulations Rafa...If you read this cause you said you're in Stuggart on monday. (good luck btw)
Posted by: Nas | 7 Jul 2008 13:30:14
We watched your match all the way from Baltimore, Maryland. We were so happy to see you win! Congrats!!!
Posted by: Car | 7 Jul 2008 13:32:53
Seems a little insignificant compared to all the other messages you've received but I've been following the blog from the start so I've got to do a final message!
What an amazing win- I am SO happy for you. I don't know how you kept going- the whole match you were unbelievable! The celebration at the end was fantastic too- it is really lovely to see how close you are to your family.
Well done, you deserved to win and I hope it will be the first of many wimbledon titles for you!!
Besos guapo xXxXxXxXxXx
P.S. Can't believe you're not having a bit of time off after this tournament!! You're just working non-stop!
Posted by: Lucy Todd | 7 Jul 2008 13:39:52
Thank you Rafa for the most exciting Sunday afternoon and evening we can ever remember.
Our palms were sweating and we could not stay still. We had to read books, watch through or fingers and change the channel through terror that you might not win. We have never seen sport more exciting.
We would like to wish you congratulations; enjoy the moment and we look forward to watching you play in the future.
Duncan and Sarah
Posted by: Duncan and Sarah | 7 Jul 2008 14:02:42
Congratulations rafa!! You really deserve it, you are a really good tennis player, and so modest. I am really happy for you. I was almost crying when you won!! It was amazing. It was the best tennis I have ever seen, I was so nervous watching it. I really hope you win more Wimbledons. Good luck. x
Posted by: MAIR | 7 Jul 2008 14:06:07