Wimbledon Thoughts

BroadwayJoe.tv would like to share Joe’s thoughts on Wimbledon this weekend. Enjoy!

I’d like to congratulate Roger Federer on a amazing 7th Wimbledon title. It’s been a thing of athletic beauty to watch Roger over the years, not just at Wimbledon but for all of his 17 Grand Slam titles. However, as remarkable as those 17 titles are, it’s more than his game that has impressed me. The class and dignity with which Roger has carried himself throughout his career is just as, if not more notable than his triumphs on the court. He’s been an upstanding citizen in his dealings with fellow competitors, fans, and the media. To have such success and keep a level head on his shoulders is a feat in itself. In one way, his success at the age of 30–incredible in terms of the sport of tennis–shows just how much longer athletes are enduring today. From developments in training to advancements in nutrition, the potential of the human body is being extended to levels unfathomable even just a decade ago. On the other hand, this victory shows the incredible importance of Roger’s mind. His determination and work ethic has, from the start, been as great as any athlete around. What is truly remarkable, though, is the continued consistency of that mental approach. With such established and legendary success, a wife and children, and younger, more athletic players like Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovik climbing past him in the rankings, Federer could have easily allowed himself to ease up and drift into retirement. After all, success can lead to a waning of ones determination. I can relate to such, as I recognized a decreased sense of drive following my Super Bowl Victory. It can take away an edge – an edge that was unrecognized while you’re still chasing that first title. You may not understand it at the time, not recognizing all the motivational factors that were there before the success. It’s not to say I tried less, because that was in no way the case. It’s that edge that isn’t the same anymore – something that’s very hard to describe unless you experience it. Roger has kept that edge, and used it to return to the mountaintop. And in that same esteem I hold Roger, I also hold Serena Williams. Serena fought through such incredible pain to come out on top on the Women’s side. To regenerate and overcome those numerous injuries is a feat just as, is not more impressive than that of Federer. She is an inspiration to not only athletes, but also anyone out there who must overcome either physical or mental impediments to gain success. Serena and Roger have inspired me, and their hard-fought triumphs this weekend were as well deserved as any. Congratulations!
- Joe
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