Simply the Best

Juan Martin Del Potro is the 20-year old Argentine who beat Roger Federer at the 2009 US Open tennis tournament in Flushing Meadows, New York City, New York.

I am unfamiliar with the game of tennis. I have never played it either. I hear tennis lingo but they are all disconnected concepts for me. Most often, I take the cue from the fans' reactions or the players' passionate display of their focus, power and game to get a sense of what's going on.

Regardless, reactions of relief and sense of triumph and victory after an intense and hard fought game are unmistakable, especially in tennis where it highlights individual players. Juan Martin collapsed on his back, uncontrollably shaking after winning. He later said in an interview that when he spoke to his parents, there were hardly words because they were all crying.

I am impressed with the high level of athleticism and competitiveness that I see in professional sports and enjoy witnessing the fulfillment of dreams for those who had the opportunity to compete with the best; where the moment of perfection is celebrated and gracious sportsmanship is applauded.

I listened to Juan Martin's interview in the Charlie Rose Show just about an hour ago. His fierceness on the hard court was replaced by a calmer and modestly mannered seated 6 feet, 6 inches young man who answered questions with forthrightness and admirable humility. It was exciting to listen to him in his own words. I think that his presence (literally and figuratively) and prominence are undeniable, now and in the years to come.