Life is a Game…

It’s official. Defending champion and the World no.1 Rafael Nadal has pulled out of Wimbledon with a Knee injury. He wasn’t at his best in the French open and that clearly showed when he lost to Soderling. He picked up that injury in the semifinals of Madrid masters.

It’d have taken a lot of pondering to take this decision. Missing the chance to defend your title will always hurt you. But in the long run, this injury might be a blessing in disguise for Nadal coz he need a break. He has been playing non-stop tennis for two years and his playing style is such that every muscle of his would be stretched to its strenuous limits. He makes his opponents run for money and in the process he failed to take care of his body. Now, his body says Enough is Enough.

Nadal is only 23 and he has already six slams to his name. Federer hadn’t won a single slam at 23. So this rest is a much needed one for Nadal. This break will not only help his rehabilitation but also’d give him ample time to reassess his strategies. He is mentally drained and a short stint in his hometown Mallorca will serve him well.

And finally, as they say only a defeat will help you relish what you have won and Nadal will certainly be back as an improved player. If you don’t think so, write Rafa off at your own peril.