What sports is really all about...

Today I am writing out of the box. I want to write a little bit about tennis. But not really about the game but what happened after Rafael Nadal beat Roger Federer in this years Australian Open. I was not able to watch the match. I was only able to catch the awarding ceremonies. After I witnessed what happened, I was pleased enough to have caught this part and missed the game itself. Although, as a tennis fan, i would have definitely appreciated the five set battle. And, i realized that the effort and heart put in by both champions had contributed to their dispositions at the end of the match. In summary, both men exhibited true class and respect for each other. In defeat, Roger showed his true emotions and he could not hold back. As a true warrior who wanted to win surely not for himself but for his family, the people around him, and for his fans, he felt that he had let them down. Yes, he wanted to win his 14th grand slam but not for himself. Roger Federer is a champion because of his heart and goodwill and he does not win for personal glory and fame but for the love of tennis and for how he can inspire others. He is adored in Australia. And when the fans began applauding for his effort he broke down....

Rafael Nadal, for his part, at 22, has truly showed maturity way ahead of his age. Such compassion and empathy. In his comments after Federer had showed his disappointment, Nadal looked up on his opponent and praised him for being a great champion. And then he gave hope for the fallen soldier by saying that he is certain Roger will achieve another grand slam title. Nadal showed empathy by saying he understood what Roger was feeling at the moment because he has experienced it before. Nadal steps inside Rogers shoes and uplifts the man's spirits by saying "don't worry brother i am here with you... i know how you feel, its okay". Nadal then gives Federer a hug as a true brother. Now if this is not what sports is really all about then I don't know what is... I cannot be more moved by what transpired between them. These two gentlemen are great examples. They have showed true sportsmanship. They are who we all should try to emulate as sportsmen and as persons. They are humble champions.

Thinking out of the box, sports is really there for us to serve as a venue to gain friendships. In the end of the day, we try our best to be the best we can be for our sport. And after working as hard as we can and offering our efforts to the One who gave us life, we strive to help others achieve the same success. When one sees another achieve greatness in his field and not just in sports he is looked up to. He gains respect and is admired. He can now become a positive influence to the well-being of others. This is how friendships and camaraderie are fostered. And after we recognize the positive values that sports brings us, we can use these values to help our families and friends reach their goals.