This is Rafa and Feds back in 2005 prior to the French Open semi-final.
Feds was right in the middle of his pomp years then ... and I'd stopped watching tennis for two years. Because of him. I just didn't like his tennis, and I liked him even less, and I certainly didn't like the way the media at large spoke of him as some Deity that we should be #humbled to live amongst. Nothing's changed with them.
But I happened on that semi-final because I'd heard about this 19-year-old kid who was causing ructions during the clay court season that year ... and not only was he the complete antithesis of Feds - which instantly made him appealing - I'd just never seen anything like it before. The power, the heart, the fighting spirit ... and he won, and I loved him for it. I know I watched the final, but my memory is so scant about it ... but it was that French Open semi-final that introduced me to Rafa. I just followed him quietly for the next year, just dibbing in and out, checking up on his results ... but it was Wimbledon 2006 when I completely fell in love with him.
I'd really started to become a fan by then, and when he played Andre Agassi in what turned out to be Andre's last match, and the respectful way he treated Andre, and the wonderful things he said about him during the on-court interview which was a departure from Wimbledon decorum, but done especially to mark the occasion ... well that was it. I loved Rafa, and I have never looked back.
But it was that first semi-final back in 2005 that started it all ... and I hope with all my heart (and never mind Laver's gut) that Rafa does it.
Good luck, Rafa. All our support is totally with you. Just try your best ... and don't you dare Vamos responsibly ...
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