I have been transfixed on the Australian Open for the past 2 weeks.
I have watched this tournament for more than a decade. Always in the middle of January.
It has always provided a telescope into a summer state of mind as Australia is in the Southern Hemisphere.
But this year it has been magic. You don't need to be a fan of tennis. You don't need to be a fan of sport.
If you are looking for hope, it has been in Melbourne over the past two weeks.
Serena Williams will play her sister Venus in the final of the women's tournament tonight.
Roger Federer will play Rafael Nadal in the men's final on Saturday/Sunday night.
That might seem like something you have seen or read about before but the likelihood of these two finals is absolutely surreal.
I have seen a lot of sporting events but never a tournament like this. wow. so special.
Rafa and Roger have endured a tremendous amount of setback over the last few years. They have been sidelined by injury and naysayers proclaiming their best days are behind them. The same is true for Venus Williams with an auto-immune disease that cannot be treated to-boot. Serena has worn the "best female athlete" "needs to break the grand slam record" for years and she is still at the top of her game. Roger is 35. Rafa is an worn-out 30, Venus is 36, and Serena is 35. They played brilliantly through 6 matches over 2 weeks against the best, younger, hungriest players in the world. And they won.
All 4 of these athletes have transcended the doubt and negativity put on them. How? through heart and belief in themselves. It is truly remarkable to watch them continue to compete through the pressure. The desire comes directly from their heart(s). It is remarkable. This has been so inspiring to witness. Thank you!
