The Man of the Moment—Roger Federer

Roger Federer, (pictured left, Getty Images) the Swiss former World No.1, is my favourite tennis player of all time. Someone to be mentioned in the same breath as Bjorn Borg, Pete Sampras, Andre Agassi, John McEnroe, John Newcombe, Rod Laver and the other greats. I am absolutely ecstatic that he has finally won the French Open on clay, arguably the hardest surface to play on due to the slowness of the ball in play. By capturing his first Roland Garros title in his 11th attempt, Roger Federer not only completed a career Grand Slam, he tied the all-time record of 14 career major singles titles won by Pete Sampras. The Swiss native improved to 14-5 lifetime in Grand Slam finals. He won his 14th title in his 40th career Slam tournament while Sampras earned his 14th crown in his 52nd major. Federer also accomplished the feat in a span less than seven years (in 24 Slams from first to 14th) while Sampras needed 13 years (in 45 Slams from first to 14th). As of June 2009, he has reached at least the semi-finals of 20 consecutive grand slam tournaments. Federer has also equaled Ivan Lendl's all-time record of 19 grand slam finals. As a result of Federer's success in tennis, he was named the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year for 4 consecutive years (2005–08).
These are all extraordinary achievements in an era where so many good players abound. But his greatest achievement to me is his place as a role model for all athletes, indeed all people. At the top of his game he is articulate, gracious, emotional, and sincere. There is no room in his life for rudeness, manipulation and browbeating of officials, bad sportsmanship or belittling of opponents. If only all modern sportspeople would follow this example. Too many, sadly, do not. The likes of Bobby Fischer (chess), Kobe Bryant (basketball), Terrell Owens (American football), Marco Materazzi (soccer) and many others could do well to follow his lead. It is too bad that there is no room in their massive egos to learn such decent things. But let's not waste time on these. It is Roger's moment, completely deserved, and to such a fine young man. I had the pleasure of meeting him at the Crown Casino in Melbourne, Australia, and his friendliness and approachability were apparent. Roger, I wish you further success and hope that your character rubs off on us all.