The Wimbledon That May End All Arguments

July 8th, 2012 could be the day.

This could be the day in which we have no other choice but to honor Roger Federer as the greatest player in the history of tennis. The arguing can die down, all the counterpoints can be discontinued, and there is nothing else we can do but marvel at his greatness.

~16 majors.
~#1 for four years in a row at one point
~Tied more most semifinal appearances
~Has won all four majors at one point
~Just one week behind Pete Sampras for most weeks as the #1 player

Despite all he has accomplished, there’s still debate on who is the best player of all-time. John McEnroe, Pete Sampras, Rod Laver had been mentioned in conversation over the years whenever Roger gets compared to recent dominant winners. But if Roger can beat Andy Murray when England in its entirely is not on his side, if he can beat Murray after surviving upset bids, outlasting Nadal’s run, and ultimately beating the strongest player on tennis today in four quick sets, what more could this man possibly prove to make sure he is considered the best of the sport?

I will be the first to admit that Pete Sampras had held my #1 ranking for the longest time, even after each of his records were getting shot down by Federer himself. However Federer in recent years has won me over by his ability to stay in tune with the far younger and still spectacular competitors like Nadal (who may also be considered one of the best), Djokovik (currently the strongest man in tennis), and underrated folks like Andy Murray and David Ferrer.

This is where we stand: Roger Federer can win his 17th major, can get the #1 ranking once again, and can win his 7th Wimbledon title all in one swoop. And all this is happening at age 30 (approaching 31) ---in a sport when age 28 is considered old. Despite Murray being far younger, Federer is still the favorite to win. At age 30 being the favorite to win a Grand Slam? That’s definitely impressive. And that is sign of greatness.

And come tomorrow, it could just be another piece of evidence showing that Roger Federer is indeed the greatest player of all-time. We can argue it all we want today, but if Wimbledon 2012 is won by Roger, then no arguing will be allowed. Similar to Michael Jordan, Babe Ruth, and Muhammad Ali, Roger Federer will be the undisputed king of his sport.