Why Do You Like Nadal and/or Federer?

[InvisibleSoul]

This thread is strictly intended for the mature fans with some actual insight.

For the big fans of Nadal, what are the things about him that makes you like him as you do?

Same question for those that like Federer.

And for those that actually like both players, what are the differences and similarities between them that makes you like them?

I'm a Federer person myself, and I like him because he plays such a beautiful game. Everything looks so elegant when he's on. I also find myself in awe with many of the ridiculous shots he has done.

I have respect for Nadal and his abilities, but I just can't find myself to like his rugged style of play anywhere near as much. He's damn good at it, but it's just not as fun to watch. He does some amazing shots too, especially his running forehands, and I admire that, but in the end, I just can't find myself liking him.

 

[Josherer]

I love them both... the game would be nothing without them... imagine having to watch Joker, Roddick and Murray dominate it would suck!

 

[zacinnc78]

I love them both... the game would be nothing without them... imagine having to watch Joker, Roddick and Murray dominate it would suck!

agreed ,i always fall asleep watching them

1. fed has the most aesthetically pleasing game to watch for me(1hbh is the best ,2hbh is boring looking,net play,and seems to pull of some rediculous shot every match) ,is a fair comptetitor and a good sport (even tho he sometimes makes me cringe with some of his post-match interviews after being upset)

2. nadal is truly a fighter ,never seems to play scared and never lazy -and maybe i can identify with his obsessive-compulsive disorder (i dont like his grunts or butt-picking though) love his forehand and stretched out running backhand winners ,i just wish fed would beat him once in a while lol

watching these 2 play each other is the pinnacle of the sport right now imo

 

[bizarre_opinion]

agreed ,i always fall asleep watching them

1. fed has the most aesthetically pleasing game to watch for me(1hbh is the best ,2hbh is boring looking,net play,and seems to pull of some rediculous shot every match) ,is a fair comptetitor and a good sport (even tho he sometimes makes me cringe with some of his post-match interviews after being upset)

2. nadal is truly a fighter ,never seems to play scared and never lazy -and maybe i can identify with his obsessive-compulsive disorder (i dont like his grunts or butt-picking though) love his forehand and stretched out running backhand winners ,i just wish fed would beat him once in a while lol

watching these 2 play each other is the pinnacle of the sport right now imo

i agree, even though i prefer feds playing style, one thing i do like about nadal is his fighting spirit and never say die attitude.

 

[TMCW140]

I love them both, but Federer does border on a god-like figre for me. I love the effortlessness and elegance of his play. I like Rafa more for the brute force and passion that goes into every point

 

[fed]

I like Roger's elegance and how most things appear effortless for him. I'm amazed by some of the shots he makes and how fluid his game is.

I prefer Roger, but I also am a fan of Nadal's game. I like how he plays no holds barred and uses complete strength. He gets into his matches and is fun to watch.

 

[rosenstar]

Generally Federer. My favorite players are athletic players with a lot of variety. My 3 favorites are Tsonga, Murray, and Federer. All players are athletic all courters who can do almost anything on the court. I particully like Tsonga b/c of his pure athletisism. I feel like if I could be any type of player possible, I would be some combination of these three.

Nadal is a very good player, and I don't think I've ever seriously knocked him, but I just don't care for him. At first I liked him, when he was and up-and-coming player, and really brought something completely unique to the tour. But now you see him so much, it's kinda boring. His volleys and slices also irritate me. He doesn't use a traditional continental grip, and I feel like he couldn't volley well if he need to. To clarify, he's a very smart player, and when he comes in, it's always off a phanominal shot, so off course he gets an easy volley and he makes it. I've never seen him really dig deep and volley a dipping ball. Instead of his volleys real penatrating the court, I feel that he uses more of a junk ball of sorts. From what I've seen of his doubles play, he plays the same style. Personal I'd like to see him serve and volley in doubles. Again, it's nothing against his skill or ability (I'm not one to comment on that; no one on this board is for that matter), but just a matter of what I enjoy watching.

 

[TopShelf]

I liked Roger ever since his first Wimbledon appearance. His game felt so smooth at his age. Its also nice to root for a guy since day 1 of his special career. I was just a bit too young to see Sampras make his complete run.


Usually you "like" a player because he is more your style, or can compare yourself to him, but I just can't get behind Nadal. I am a lefty, love my forehand but to me he just seems "dirty" and needs a shower, more so then the rest.
I guess the azz picking doesn't help, or the girl shorts

 

[BackHander22]

Federer for having A BEAUTIFUL GAME. Just love to watch him play.

 

[LuckyR]

This thread is strictly intended for the mature fans with some actual insight.

Why? Fandom has little to nothing to do with insight. Deciding that Fed has a beautiful game (which BTW I agree with personally) is no more mature than saying you like capri pants.

 

[InvisibleSoul]

Usually you "like" a player because he is more your style, or can compare yourself to him, but I just can't get behind Nadal. I am a lefty, love my forehand but to me he just seems "dirty" and needs a shower, more so then the rest.
I guess the azz picking doesn't help, or the girl shorts

Yeah, I totally know what you mean... I would actually say I have more similarity to Nadal, being that I'm more of a grinder type that runs everything down, and I'll admit my style is not elegant... in fact, quite the opposite of that. I'm fairly unorthodox... as in my technique looks weird... but yeah... but still I find myself to like Federer instead.

 

[GameSampras]

Federer.. As his game is so much more enjoyable to watch with his fluidity and more variety to his game. I cant say the same for a player like Nadal. Who plays one way all the way. I just never enjoyed the moonball-topspin-grinder style of play.

 

[TheTruth]

I love the passion and never-say-die attitude of Nadal.

I am in awe of the teenager who burst on the scene and refused to bow down to the "giant."

I admire his belief and wish I could stay so mentally focused on the prize.

I like the way he is so respectful of his opponents and always know he can lose, (because he can).

I liked better his original garb which separated him from the pack.

I like the fierce and determined look when he plays and the soft, que sera sera look when he comes off the court.

I like that he doesn't display a superior attitude towards other.

I like how he speaks humbly and truthfully without putting anyone else down.

I love the way he competes, as in warrior. I am reminded of gladiators whose sole purpose is to win.

I like his maturity in not striking out at the worldwide media, but in putting his head down and constantly proving the doubters wrong.

I like the way his family raised him, and how Uncle Toni makes him carry his own bag. I can't imagine an entourage around him being yes men and stroking his ego. His values wouldn't allow that.

In short, I like everything about Nadal. He's the kind of person, and has the traits I would most like to emulate.

 

[supitsnic]

I love both players. They are both great athletes. The tennis world be absolutely different if both players weren't around.

In my opinion Federer and Nadal's rivalry can compare to the Sampras-Agassi rivalry.

What I love about Federer's game is its elegance. He is so poised and mentally tough. I also enjoy his emotional moments also.

Nadal's game is so exciting. He's full of energy and emotion.

I love them both!

 

[egn]

I only like one if the other is around, honestly in order for me to like them I need both.

 

[vitasGremembered]

I enjoy both of them because they are gentlemen who give praise to the other players in a genuine and warm manner.

1. Fed- He's a wondrous player, power with seemingly effortless fluidity; he does it all, serve, volley, FH, BH, flat, slice. Precise movements, hardly ever scrambling. Just beautiful to watch.

2. Nadal- So fit. Mental strength to not give one easy point away, even when down huge. Improvements to game to go beyond strictly a clay courter. French and Wimbledon? Beating Federer, the best, in the finals both times? Wow. Now a challenger at the Australian? Learning to hit flatter and more penetrating shots while coming up with a big serve.

We are truly blessed because these two are a couple of the most gracious players I have seen in my 45 years. I enjoy Mac nowadays but he was the opposite of gracious when he played. Same with Connors. Luckily I did see some Edberg and Becker too.

 

[ruerooo]

I love them both... the game would be nothing without them... imagine having to watch Joker, Roddick and Murray dominate it would suck!

Ew.

I like them both because underneath Roger's gentility, and Rafa's mellowness, they're both fighters. When they both turn it on, there is nothing they won't do to get the next point.

They're both brilliant athletes, but they don't rest on their talent. They have the best work ethics in the league, which IMO shows in their ranking.

I think they're both great ambassadors for the sport. I love to watch them with the little kids.

I also just plain enjoy watching them both move around the court during a battle. It's like watching two big cats.

And you can bash me for collecting the Mens Vogue and ESPN Vivo covers if you want to, but there is nothing like Roger or Rafa in a suit. Sue me, I'm a girl with good taste.

 

[edmondsm]

Federer's rise to dominance was a big reason that I started watching alot of tennis. Having a guy with such an aesthetically pleasing 1hbh dominate in world of 2 handers was really cool. This is why it sucks that Henin and Mauresmo aren't at the top any more.

I respect Nadal tremendously, but find his game ugly and his on-court mannerisms and antics truly annoying. He seems like a very humble and nice dude, and again I respect him for this. But I could really care very little for what a guy does and says off-court. I'll judge a tennis player by what he does on the tennis court, and I just don't like what Nadal does there.

 

[wihamilton]

This thread is strictly intended for the mature fans with some actual insight.

For the big fans of Nadal, what are the things about him that makes you like him as you do?

Same question for those that like Federer.

And for those that actually like both players, what are the differences and similarities between them that makes you like them?

I'm a Federer person myself, and I like him because he plays such a beautiful game. Everything looks so elegant when he's on. I also find myself in awe with many of the ridiculous shots he has done.

I have respect for Nadal and his abilities, but I just can't find myself to like his rugged style of play anywhere near as much. He's damn good at it, but it's just not as fun to watch. He does some amazing shots too, especially his running forehands, and I admire that, but in the end, I just can't find myself liking him.

I'm a huge fan of both. From a coach's perspective, both players have, in their own ways, revolutionized the game with their forehands hand how they move around the court. Technically speaking, Federer and Nadal do stuff on their forehands we've never seen before.

In terms of who I root for in a head-to-head match up, I'm definitely in the Federer camp. That said, I'll root for Rafa vs. every other player. We're very lucky to have both of them.

 

[Fintendo]

Love them both. Nadal more though. I love Nadal because

1. Power

2. Focus

3. Speed

4. Attitude

5. Humble manner

6 Charisma

I love fed because

1. Agility

2. All court game

3. effortlessnes

4. Silly clothes he wears.

5. Calm under pressure.

 

[tacou]

I can't understand anyone who loves one but dislikes the other. to me, they are the same player.

of course their styles are VASTLY different, and if you simply can't appreciate one of their games, that is understandable.

I personally find Federer's natural talent astounding, some of the shots he has hit are not just physically impressive, but CREATIVE; no other player could even consider them as options. he can be beautiful to watch.

that being said, I prefer Nadal's game. he can be aggressive, hitting a big forehand, ripping backhands, dragging his opponent from side to side until their legs give out or he decides to play the net, which he does rather well. he can also play the best defensive game in tennis, hitting shots with so much topspin it hurts to return them. quite a feat!

as for them as people, this is where I think they are the same. both are humble (though Fed can be a bit arrogant, but I think he's more than earned that right) yet give off an air of supreme confidence on the court. they are not players, but presences.

both are great champions and I'm proud to be a fan of both.

 

[P_Agony]

I adore Federer because of his elegant, almost effortless, style of play. The guy is also reasponsible for some of the most outrages winners in the history of the game, and there are so many of them.

I respect Nadal, he's a hard worker and is very modest. I don't like his style of play as far as "beautiful tennis" goes.

 

[wihamilton]

both are great champions and I'm proud to be a fan of both.

Well said.

 

[hjminard]

I like both.

Federer is the best overall tennis player I've personally ever watched. He's incredibly gifted and appears effortless. The only negative I can come up with is he seems to be a little too image conscious and fussy (Metrosexual? The little thing in Tennis magazine (most recent issue, I think) about ATP fashion was very funny). Ignoring such unimportant things, however ... he's amazing to watch.

Nadal is a warrior - and an incredibly physical athlete who could probably excel in many sports. Seems to be very humble. Currently my favorite player. Could do without some of the on-court quirks ... and thankfully the pirate pants are gone.

 

[BallzofSkill]

honestly, 'what a shot' is a phrase that was created for federer. Over the years, the guy doesn't cease to impress with his talent.

 

[BMWprestigem3]

I like them both but, I prefer Federer.

 

[SchreckTennis]

I love both of them, especially when playing against eachother. They basically are opposites, yet complete eachother.

To me, Federer is so elegant, effortless, and seemingly (though I hate this word) textbook in the execution of his shots. On the other side, Nadal seems to have a more "home made" type of play that shows a lot of grit, determination, and unlikely winners with things like the buggy whip shot.

The way they dress (before the AO) is also so different. Federer with his usually pretty flat, boring, traditional polos and above-knee shorts versus Nadal with his sleeveless shirts, bright colors, and what I call pirate pants.

Other opposites are the way they simply are oriented (for lack of better wording). With being righty vs. lefty and 1hbh vs. 2hbh.

Just fun to watch, especially against eachother.

 

[colonelforbin]

Federer - Federer has been my favorite player since I seriously started following tennis back in 2003/2004. As others have said, he has the most aesthetically pleasing game when he's on, and he has beautiful variety. I also love 1hbh's, and I feel I play a similar kind of game to him. I also think he's a great sport on-court, and although he does sometimes come across as cocky off-court, I respect him for speaking his mind. I also think Federer deserves a lot of credit from a historical perspective already, for literally raising the level of tennis and forcing other players to get better during his prime years. When a lot of people thought tennis was degenerating into one-dimensional baseline bashing, Federer came along and showed that an all-court game with impeccable touch could still dominate. He forced others to develop similar all-court games, and, in a way, saved tennis (hope that statement wasn't too melodramatic).

Nadal - These boards seem to always be pitting Fed fans against Nadal fans with little middle ground, which gets annoying because as much of a die-hard Fed fan I am, Nadal is another one of my very favorite players. When he first hit the scene I felt some animosity towards him because of his seemingly one-dimensional, top-spin oriented game, but I have developed a deep respect for Nadal's effort to adapt and improve his game on non-clay surfaces. I also admire his consistent on-court intensity. He really has turned himself into a great player.

 

[janipyt05]

They both are so different but both so brilliant. Fed is slick Mr Slick, glides on and glieds off yes its been hard of late but Nothing can take away what Fed has done and continues to do for this game i love. Nadal, he just ripped up the rule book what can't you love about someone who was told you can't win on hard court and you can't play on grass and shows you yes i bloody well can.

They both are fantastic to have, focused, talented and push the bar all the time in different ways. I Like Nadal more but Fed has my respect and i do enjoy when he plays great tennis which is most of the time.

 

[TheTruth]

Ew.

I like them both because underneath Roger's gentility, and Rafa's mellowness, they're both fighters. When they both turn it on, there is nothing they won't do to get the next point.

They're both brilliant athletes, but they don't rest on their talent. They have the best work ethics in the league, which IMO shows in their ranking.

I think they're both great ambassadors for the sport. I love to watch them with the little kids.

I also just plain enjoy watching them both move around the court during a battle. It's like watching two big cats.

And you can bash me for collecting the Mens Vogue and ESPN Vivo covers if you want to, but there is nothing like Roger or Rafa in a suit. Sue me, I'm a girl with good taste.

Very enjoyable post.

Wow! Never seen it. Wonder if I could go look at back issues.

 

[Conquistador]

I love Federer because of his class and his respect of past champions. I just love to see a player play with grace and then show that grace after the match. I consider roger to be one of the best role models in all of sports.

 

[Purostaff]

I like federer because he used the same racquet model I use. Don't like nadal that much because I tried babolat racquet and was not impressed.

 

[Radical10is]

i love Federer for his strokes. These days you really can't find as pure strokes as his. Also i have a one-hander, and try to model it after him best i can!

 

[RFdaBest]

This thread adds a good bit of cheese to the forum

 

[TheMusicLover]

A positive thread, how nice to see!

Well, I ADORE both, for reasons stated already by most posters above me, but must admit that since his so-called 'decline', I root for Fed just a little bit more, as time isn't on his side, and I'm hoping him to hang on in there as long as possible.

Just one more thing to add: both have very likeable personalities, are well-brought up, fine young men. I've met them both and can only back up the friendly words said about them by almost everybody (minus the haters, of course).

May their Reign last as long as possible!

 

[luv2volley]

I love the passion and never-say-die attitude of Nadal.

I am in awe of the teenager who burst on the scene and refused to bow down to the "giant."

I admire his belief and wish I could stay so mentally focused on the prize.

I like the way he is so respectful of his opponents and always know he can lose, (because he can).

I liked better his original garb which separated him from the pack.

I like the fierce and determined look when he plays and the soft, que sera sera look when he comes off the court.

I like that he doesn't display a superior attitude towards other.

I like how he speaks humbly and truthfully without putting anyone else down.

I love the way he competes, as in warrior. I am reminded of gladiators whose sole purpose is to win.

I like his maturity in not striking out at the worldwide media, but in putting his head down and constantly proving the doubters wrong.

I like the way his family raised him, and how Uncle Toni makes him carry his own bag. I can't imagine an entourage around him being yes men and stroking his ego. His values wouldn't allow that.

In short, I like everything about Nadal. He's the kind of person, and has the traits I would most like to emulate.

All of the above, I really like Nadal's character as a human being and as an athlete.
I like Roger's strokes and game styles, however.

 

[RanchDressing]

I like federer because he beats players with pure skill.
Nadal beats players because he beats them. Like he beats the S*** out of their bodies untill he comes out on top.
He seems barbaric, and not in the badass way........... reminds me of a butcher on roids after he smoked crack, with a very "humble" personality.
but i love the competition... very good for sport.
it is really going to be horrible when federer leaves.
No more skilled craftsmen.............
I like the good old days best when federer would go toe to toe agains other hardcourters... it was great just to watch federer construct the point then demolish the other player.
in a way it makes it more interesting with these better players but, I dont really like it...
I dunno mixed feelings about modern game.

 

[CleffedUp]

This thread is strictly intended for the mature fans with some actual insight.

For the big fans of Nadal, what are the things about him that makes you like him as you do?

Same question for those that like Federer.

And for those that actually like both players, what are the differences and similarities between them that makes you like them?

I'm a Federer person myself, and I like him because he plays such a beautiful game. Everything looks so elegant when he's on. I also find myself in awe with many of the ridiculous shots he has done.

I have respect for Nadal and his abilities, but I just can't find myself to like his rugged style of play anywhere near as much. He's damn good at it, but it's just not as fun to watch. He does some amazing shots too, especially his running forehands, and I admire that, but in the end, I just can't find myself liking him.

You've really nailed it for me. Nadal has some really strong features to his game, but Federer is consistently elegant. It's hard not to enjoy a virtuoso.

 

[World Beater]

i love tennis therefore i love them both.

however i prefer federer's style of tennis. what that means is that i would rather watch federer play against a qualifier than watch nadal play a qualifier. nothing more than that.

 

[OddJack]

I like Nadal because:

He brings excitement to the match.
He has this masculine game and add to that grind and that's some good entertainment.
He is one of the best players in recent years and his clay court dominance is bringing up standards on that surface

Federer:

Inspiring, Inspiring, Inspiring.

Never before Talent, Achievements, consistency, Originality, mental strength and aesthetics have all met in same place as they did on him. He does way more than winning matches. He created shots that created tennis players. He has been a gift to slumping tennis around the world inspiring the young and the old.
There has never been someone like him, and I am afraid there will never be.

 

[TRT001]

This thread is strictly intended for the mature fans with some actual insight.

For the big fans of Nadal, what are the things about him that makes you like him as you do?

Same question for those that like Federer.

And for those that actually like both players, what are the differences and similarities between them that makes you like them?

I'm a Federer person myself, and I like him because he plays such a beautiful game. Everything looks so elegant when he's on. I also find myself in awe with many of the ridiculous shots he has done.

I have respect for Nadal and his abilities, but I just can't find myself to like his rugged style of play anywhere near as much. He's damn good at it, but it's just not as fun to watch. He does some amazing shots too, especially his running forehands, and I admire that, but in the end, I just can't find myself liking him.

i agree. i admit im a federer fan but i dont really enjoy nadals style either. rafa seems like a nice guy off the court and i know hes a great player but his rallies r too much of the same thing i just get bored watching him, even though it works just fine 4 him.

 

[rommil]

Nadal...... I was at the 2004 USO and I wandered into the grandstand and here was this player I have never heard of, he was swinging this black Babolat and there was something about the way he played and moved. I immediately had the feeling he was different from the others, and that he would be a great player. Turned out to be Rafa. I like his determination and dogged play and when I heard in an interview that his somebody in his family told him to "stay hungry but stay humble", it's clear why Rafa is that way. I'm not a big fan of his oncourt rituals and I'm glad he finally got rid of that redundant outfit of his. He's strokes are not visually appealing but it's hard to argue with the results.

Federer...... The same day at the USO though Federer was obviously more known. He was practicing in an outside court(they had a couple then) against Hrbaty and we had first row seats. The guy doesn't look like an imposing figure to be an athlete, in fact he looked thin but with a big right arm. I started wondering how he can hit the ball the way he did. Then he started moving and hitting shots then you see it. The strokes, the movement was just sublime. After the practice, there were a lot of people waiting for an autograph including a lot of kids yelling his name out to which he responded " Don't worry I will get to everybody". He went around and when we got our chance he signed our autographs, we had a picture taken with him with my parents and when I asked "How's Juliet?" he smiled and said "She's ok". The thing that impressed me with Roger is that he seemed to take his time and was never in a hurry (I know it was just one day right). I've seen instances that Sampras or Agassi would just hurry off (with bouncers). So to those that have never met him and keeps saying how arrogant Federer is, you could be the one who has issues.

Obviuosly I like Federer much better, if that makes me a ******* so be it lol. Federer managed to bring a game that's elegant, thoughful, masterful in an era where everybody's mindplan is to blow the competition off the court. He has showed that their is another way and he dominated tennis for a long time using his brand of tennis. I don't know if I can totally credit him for everything around his life but he is surrounded with good people around him. He has found a way to balance his personal and professional life very well. He speaks like 5 languages(well he is Swiss after all). You can call him gay or metrosexual but I think it's great that he pays attention to his image and the way he looks. I have never seen a number 1 player who seems universally admired by his peers while being "feared". What makes Federer different is that most other players play well when they are intense, Roger plays best when he is relaxed.

Lastly, Federer does not only make me play tennis. He makes me want to play BETTER tennis.

 

[cucio]

My stomach is still cramping from the Wimby 2008 final. If I wouldn't respect and admire profoundly the two people that gave me such a momentous tennis experience I would be a poor excuse of a tennis fan.

I don't find neither of their games unpleasant, part of tennis appeal to me is that you can win the match in several different ways, and there are a lot of different skills involved. I don't buy the technique vs athleticism duality for a second, although it is mercilessly marketed. Both are incredibly technically, physically and mentally gifted.

That said, I respect any tour player, they are all geniuses, I even enjoy the occasional dose of Karlovic.

 

[ruerooo]

My stomach is still cramping from the Wimby 2008 final.

I'm glad I'm not the only one.

I don't find neither of their games unpleasant, part of tennis appeal to me is that you can win the match in several different ways, and there are a lot of different skills involved.

This is a nice, and profound, statement.

Both are incredibly technically, physically and mentally gifted. That said, I respect any tour player, they are all geniuses, I even enjoy the occasional dose of Karlovic.

Funny.

 

[veroniquem]

They both have remarkable technical skills. Some reasons why I like Nadal best:
superb athleticism and endurance
extreme fighting spirit, mental intensity
charisma, stronger presence on court
speed, unbelievable topspin, adaptability (to different surfaces and different opponents, ability to adjust his game to keep progressing).

 

[oy vey]

Nadal has class with his comments. He never puts anyone down. Roger can be *****ly and narcissistic. He's mean against Novak and Murray. Having Anna Wintour in his box at USO doesn't make me think highly of him. Basic all around *******.

 

[Fay]

I like both player's tennis for different reasons ...

I prefer Rafa's personality. More down to earth.

 

[Fay]

They both have remarkable technical skills. Some reasons why I like Nadal best:
superb athleticism and endurance
extreme fighting spirit, mental intensity
charisma, stronger presence on court
speed, unbelievable topspin, adaptability (to different surfaces and different opponents, ability to adjust his game to keep progressing).

I read the comments after I posted ... I agree with these reasons as well -- Nadal's fighting spirit and determination and his personal effort on *every* point are awesome. Inspires me to play harder no matter how I feel, how hot or cold it is outside.

 

[Ruzica]

My first ever post here

To be honest neither is a favourite of mine, though I do admire Federer's game a lot. He is graceful and artistic, - his game is more a work of art than anything else, and he almost seems to glide around the court so effortlessly like a dancer. It is beautiful to watch. As oy vey just said though - lately he has said some very mean and unprofessional things about other players, that I believe do not become him as an ambassador for the sport, and that has made me have more reservations about him than before.

For Nadal - he always seems OK off court and seems very humble (maybe too humble , ) but I do hate his power game so much. To me, there's no beauty there - no elegance or class - just sheer brute-force....... and whist I don't deny that it takes hard work and dedication to get your body to that pinnacle of strengtand fitness - the style does nothing for me. To me, tennis should be about a variety of shots and the ability to use them all, and to use your brain and think your way out of trouble if necssary - it isn't about being stronger than your opponent and grinding them into the ground.

Just my views anyway.

 

[veroniquem]

My first ever post here

To be honest neither is a favourite of mine, though I do admire Federer's game a lot. He is graceful and artistic, - his game is more a work of art than anything else, and he almost seems to glide around the court so effortlessly like a dancer. It is beautiful to watch. As oy vey just said though - lately he has said some very mean and unprofessional things about other players, that I believe do not become him as an ambassador for the sport, and that has made me have more reservations about him than before.

For Nadal - he always seems OK off court and seems very humble (maybe too humble , ) but I do hate his power game so much. To me, there's no beauty there - no elegance or class - just sheer brute-force....... and whist I don't deny that it takes hard work and dedication to get your body to that pinnacle of strengtand fitness - the style does nothing for me. To me, tennis should be about a variety of shots and the ability to use them all, and to use your brain and think your way out of trouble if necssary - it isn't about being stronger than your opponent and grinding them into the ground.

Just my views anyway.

I have to disagree with your assessment of Nadal's game. For all the fuss around his biceps, he does have a variety of shots and strategic thinking. He is strong sure but he is not a mindless ball basher and he can mix it up pretty well when needed. The idea that he could have played 3 Wimbledon finals if he was a "hitting brute" without finesse is just absurd and IMO indefensible. Ball bashers with no brain do not have consistent high results on grass, you need to construct your points there, have good skills at net (and/or have a lethal first serve).