One For The Ages

The changing of the guard?

Underwear tugging Rafael Nadal has ended the incredible 5 year reign of Roger Federer over at the sunny plains of Wimbledon.

For me, this is probably one of the best matches I've seen so far barring the 2 rain delays (Which we probably needed to catch our breaths).

Again, some pictures to sum it all up. Courtesy of Wimbledon.

Pre match photo. Gotta dig that sweater Federer is wearing. Wait till you see what Serena wears.

The devastating top spin forehand of Nadal. Deep, penetrating and one which Fed isn't in the mood to receive for the next few months.

The shot that Fed should have used more. The backhand slice. His usually reliant backhand wasn't working in the final.

Rain on Henman Hill. The bane of Wimbledon. Thank God they're building a roof for centre court next year.

Watch a Nadal match and this will be a very familiar sight. He does this in between almost every point.

Finally. After squandering 3 match points, centre court has a new king.

I was rooting for Fed. Really wanted to see him break Borg's record of 5 successive Wimbby titles. Can't imagine how he must be feeling. So near, yet so far.

It was a match neither deserved to lose.

But this man deserved it too. After 2 failed Wimbledon finals, it's third time lucky for the spaniard.

He doesn't look too please I must say.

As you can see in the background, it was practically night when it finished. 9.15 to be exact. Exactly 4 hours and 48 minutes of play. The longest final in the history of Wimbledon.

The final score

6-4, 6-4, 6-7 (5-7), 6-7 (8-10), 9-7.

The fourth set tie break was particularly nerve-wrecking.

The final point with the presentation ceremony.

Vamos Rafa.