Marathon match ends at last with Isner victory!
Just when you thought the world's longest match would last till eternity, John Isner stops time AT wimbledon with a tiring 70-68 victory!
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Article by: Rumer Certeza Photos: Getty Images |
In an epic clash that boasts of jaw-dropping records, the match lasting a total of 11 hours, five sets, plus 980 points over a span of 3 days, the triumphant American wouldn't settle for a handshake and gave Frenchman rival Nicolas Mahut a massive bear-hug.
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John Isner |
"You know, it stinks someone had to lose," Isner told the crowd after the big finisher. Both players displayed unmatched intensity and steel-wit determination, and simply refused to throw in the towel in a multitude of exchanges that had you nibbling away at those nails.
The end of the match had the 23rd seeded American dropping down on the court, rolling on his back and waving his legs like a baby, while Mahut sported that blank stare mouthing of the words, "It's really painful." You played like a true warrior, buddy.
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Nicolas Mahut |
The entire court battle concluded with an overall total of 980 points, in which the Frenchman won more with 365-346, out of 711 points in set number 5. Yet Isner would take the last and deciding point of all, with an uncontested backhand to wrap up the marathon series. The American had also broken Mahut's serve for only the second time in the whole match.
This garnered a roaring applause and adoration from the audience, with even former Wimbledon champ John McEnroe saying, "I'm tired of watching this. It's Herculean what they're doing.. I had to come pay my respects."
Isner is best known for upsetting another American powerhouse, 5th seeded Andy Roddick, in last year's third round of the U.S. open. The 28-year-old Mahut on the other hand, shone back in 2000 as a pro in Wimbledon's junior title.
After all that's transpired, these guys played like it was the championships! Or even more, like their lives were at stake. What else is there to see besides this, as the tournament progresses? WOWOWIE! I am blown away into microscopic-sized bits!!
To these two heroes of tennis.. cheers! Group hug fellas!
