Nadal & Federer on Course to Take Beijing 2008 Gold Medals

Some days after the most fierce tennis match we have witnessed at Wimbledon between the world number one Roger Federer and the new crowned title holder; second best tennis player Rafael Nadal; another chapter of action unveils as we get closer to the beginning of the Olympic Games in Beijing, China next month of August.

Both players Federer and Nadal are aware of how important these Olympic Games are; as it could mean a vital power switch of the Swiss star 232-week long run in the top position to his Spaniard rival; especially with the background that now follows Nadal after grasping his fourth consecutive French Open title and his maiden Wimbledon on grass. If we are to take a look back a couple of months ago; there was Nadal who at the moment was struggling to close the venue for his Serbian foil – Novak Djokovic – who more less was standing on his toes. But in a blink of an eye things began to favour the young Mallorcan who cleverly managed to pull a hat-trick…winning the unthinkable.

Now we find Roger Federer looking over his shoulder; as Nadal is in total self-confidence to take the number one position once the North American hard-courts season beings. Nevertheless; the Olympics will indeed determine if the Swiss master’s eagerness for another run or if the Spaniard 155-week reign in the second position will be suddenly interrupted for a better ending.

For Nadal the upcoming event in China is one of the most important steps in the professional career of a tennis player as holding a gold medal is a completely different feeling than any ATP tournament. “To play in the Olympics is very special, because when you’re very young you always see the Olympic Games on television,” said Nadal who’ll be making his singles debut in Beijing having played doubles with Carlos Moya at Athens four years ago.”You represent your country, that’s the same as the Davis Cup, but at the same time it’s completely different. When I play Davis Cup I always have this big motivation and I think in the Olympics I am going to have the same.”

On the other hand; Federer’s coolness on the matter after his defeats at Roland Garros and Wimbledon give us lots to think about. There is something still that has not been revealed and it seems as the 12-time Grand Slam champion is not ready to hand over in anticipation his position neither to yield to adversity. The 2008 ATP season has been a real struggle for Federer as he faced a very tough mononucleosis just before the Australian Open and it has taken him more than seven months to gain back control of his game.

Federer has long hoped to win a gold medal and this could certainly be the perfect time to do so; as besides, being a career booster for the tennis player it will be an honour to play for his motherland and achieve such triumph. While playing in Beijing Federer will celebrate his 27th birthday…and I guess this could also be another good reason to aim for the gold around his neck.