Roger Rules

The front page of The Desert Sun today:
WHO'S BETTER THAN FEDERER? NOBODY

We went back to the Pacific Life Open for the Men's championship yesterday. Roger Federer in a match against James Blake. After falling behind 4-1 in the opening set, Federer, who many say is the best tennis player ever, came back to beat Blake 7-5, 6-3, 6-0.

Blake, an American who wasn't even considered in the running, not top 10, played a formidable game. Because of his winnings at this Open, he is now ranked Top Ten. It is entirely possible that he will become Top Five.

James Blake's is a moving story. We were told by a spectator that he broke his neck 2 years ago when he ran into a post in a match in Rome. After that he had further complications and lost some eye sight. This was his comeback. Few expected it to be a true come back. In fact, we were told ( and reported to you) that "americans were out" back on Thursday.

At the end of this match of spectacular tennis Blake was given a huge ovation by the crown.
As he was given the award he told the crowd ( not verbatim): Roger Federer is clearly the best player in the world. It was a great, great pleasure to be able to play this match with him.
He went on to say that when, 2 years ago, he was in the hospital in Rome, everyone had their minds, understandly, on their game. He said: I received one note while I was there. It was from Roger Federer wishing me a speedy recovery.

You can see the press and pomp ( left and right!)