Federer wins 15th major in a classic 
It was dramatic, both the match and the occasion
For starters, Pete Sampras, the man whose 14 major titles Roger Federer was trying to surpass, arrived fashionably late. He would then join a few other tennis greats, like Bjorn Borg and Rod Laver, in the Royal Box.
Andy Roddick would be equal to the occasion. He did not play like he was 2-18 overall and 0-6 in the majors against Federer. His serving was phenomenal, and he did not lose serve until the 77th and final game of the match. And unfortunately for Roddick, that was enough for Federer to win.
The match itself was a classic--a 5-setter that lasted 4 hours and 17 minutes long. Both players were at their best. Roddick did not give the match away; Federer took away. Roddick’s 27 aces and 74 winners were minimal in comparison to Federer’s 50 aces and 107 winners.
This was one of those matches that was not determined until the end. Roddick had a big opportunity in the second set to build on his 7-5 first set win, but it was not to be. After leading 5-1 in the tiebreaker, he would then lose 6-7 (8-6 in the tiebreaker) in the second set.
Despite losing that second set in a way that some might say was a choke, Roddick would continue his high level of play to match Federer. This was like a heavyweight fight, where one mistake is costly. Neither player would allow the other to gain a big momentum.
The match would not be decided until the 30th game in the fifth set. Federer would take full advantage on his first championship point opportunity when Roddick’s return sailed long to take the match, 5-7, 7-6 (8-6), 7-6 (7-5), 3-6, 16-14.
How many more major titles will Federer get? Sampras thinks he has many more opportunities. "He's a stud. He's only 27. He'll contend here for many years, and the U.S. Open, and all the majors,” said Sampras, alluding to the importance of staying healthy.
On the flip side, how many more will opportunities will Roddick get? Some say he is unlucky in that he plays in an era dominated by Federer.
It was perfect setting to break a record. It was in the biggest occasion in the biggest stage. Congratulations to both Federer and Roddick for a terrific match.q
