By Kyle Revall

With Roger Federer’s clutch 16-14 win in the fifth set over Andy Roddick, he became the record holder for the most Grand Slam victories of all time.  Does that, officially, make Federer the best player ever?

Consider the evidence:

- He's consistent: Another record he holds is reaching 21 consecutive Grand Slam semifinals.  He has been able to play at a high level consistently for over five years!  Rafael Nadal, Roddick, Andy Murray, and many other players of the era have a fluke match every now and then where they exit in the first few rounds of a major tournament.
     Even the great “Pistol” Pete Sampras struggled in some majors.  For example, his BEST finish at Roland Garros was a semifinal loss to Yevgeny Kafelnikov in 1996. Not only has Federer been able to reach the semifinals, but he now has his hands on the ultimate red clay trophy.  Because Federer has completed a career Grand Slam, I believe he is now the best player ever. 

- He's solid as a rock: Federer doesn’t have any weaknesses in his game, no flaws in his strokes, and now, no major trophy that eludes him.

- He's a class act: Not only is Federer the GOAT (greatest player of all time), but he is the best ambassador that any sport has ever seen. He is humble when interviewed. He indulges fans who request autographs and photos. He dresses fashionably for any occasion
     Federer is so likable, he even pulled fans who generally root for the underdog, such as myself, into his corner.  Many people I interviewed here in Long Island said that they “always root American,” but many also said that, “I keep finding myself rooting for Roger to beat Pete’s record!”
     You cannot help but cheer for this guy!  He’s a class act, a phenomenal tennis player, and a great guy!  What doesn’t he have?

Along the same lines of greatness, many people are saying that the Federer-Roddick final was the best match of all time.  I think that it had all of the components.  It had drama in that Federer was trying to make history by setting the record for the most Grand Slam championships.  More drama ensued when the huge underdog, Roddick started up a set.  The match had great points, putting on a show for the fans.

The match was the longest in Wimbledon history.  Not only did it go 30 games in the final set, but there were two tiebreakers in the first four sets and a 7-5 victory in the first!

Finally, legends witnessed history been made from their seats in the Royal Box.  The presence of Sampras, Rod Laver, Bjorn Borg and others created a great atmosphere. In my opinion, this was the greatest match that just happened to involve the greatest player of all time.