Youthful exuberance quelled by experience

GENERATION NEW HAS A FOOT IN THE DOOR

What a fantastic way to end an amazing two weeks at the world's most famous tennis tournament.

It’s hardly fair to say that the current playing legends are on their way out, and I might be wrong, but from all indications, it won’t be long now till the next flood of champions come crashing through the gates to usurp the dominance in the sport. We're witnessing the subtle swing into a new era in both the men’s and women’s game. Both an exciting and emotional time for tennis fans. 

It was a really tough one for the youthful charge this year so far, falling just short at their very last hurdles, but it is evident that they have the bits firmly between their teeth and they are rearing to go, although it seems that just for now, experience still has the upper hand. 

I really thought that Eugenie Bouchard would come through in the Ladies Final, Petra Kvitova clearly did not share that thought. With a sublime display of power hitting and brilliant serving, she silenced the young pretender to her once worn crown in double quick time.

For the men, both well known Kings of the Slams, efficiently dealt with the charge to their kingdoms in the semi-finals. And late Sunday night, the younger of the elder Statesmen lifted the Gold Pineapple cup. Djockovic held on in 5 scintillating, nail biting sets to rob Roger Federer of an unprecedented 18th Slam. 

Vasek Pospisil and Jack Sock clinched a massive win for the men’s doubles crown against the beastie boys, Bob and Mike Bryan. Bet it feels great to win a doubles crown against the most dominant partnership since “The Woodies”…

Sam Stosur popped back into Slam final for another title, assisting her mixed doubles partner Nenad Zimonjic to complete his own Grand Slam set.

And finally, hoorah for Roberta Vinci and Sara Errani, they eventually found the last puzzle piece and plugged in to complete their set of trophies at the Grand Slams. Two little Italians… with a rather big game.

It’s been a great two weeks on the grass of the All England Lawn Tennis Club and I look forward to an intriguing 51 weeks of tennis till the next one. 

One thing is certain though, the time has come to pick your new favourite from the NextGen, and start saying your goodbyes to the sentimental favourites. 

Cx