This was it. Tennis’ own “El Clásico”. Roger Federer. Rafael Nadal.

On Sunday 6th July 2008, the spectators of the men’s Wimbledon final weren’t to be fooled by Federer’s cool on court demeanour. For this match-up had all the makings of a physically brutal encounter, with lung busting rallies, and immense shotmaking. They were like two heavyweights throwing blow after blow where neither were relenting, even after 12 rounds.

Nadal had previously lost to Federer for the past two years in this very Wimbledon final but was quickly off the blocks leading by two sets to love. The Swiss maestro however found his edge at the right time, taking the 3rd set in a close tie break.

As the sun began to fade, there was an evident cool evening breeze and Nadal’s nerves started to get the better of him in the 4th set tiebreak. He squandered a 5-2 lead, but clawed his way back to 7-6 earning himself a championship point. Federer then replied with a fiery first serve to equalise. But then… an inspired on the run forehand passes Federer to earn himself another championship point! The crowd had barely recovered from being at their wits end with Nadal’s shot when Federer replied again with a down-the-line passing shot of his own, with that iconic backhand! Federer weathered the Nadal storm and won the tiebreaker 10-8, and the 4th set.

Seven games all in the 5th set, and either player needed to win 2 games in a row to claim the set, and the Championship. This fifth set was where these two men established their greatness. Their will to win. Their grit. Their determination. This was a cage match. No one was to leave until a victor had been crowned.

At 8-7, advantage Nadal, and after almost 6 hours of play, Federer fades a forehand into the net, and Nadal claims victory! He falls to the ground in relief, ecstasy, and triumph. Such feelings are now synonymous with Nadal’s iconic victory celebrations through the years. The place erupts! The faded light on centre court accentuates the flashing lights of capitalising photographers all around. Both men shake hands at the net, as the flashing lights continue to highlight this momentous occasion.

Filled with immense pride, adrenaline and emotion, Nadal hoists himself into his player’s box embracing all his loved ones, along with his esteemed coach, Toni Nadal. He then makes his way over to the royal box to go and greet King Felipe VI of Spain and his wife Queen Letizia of Spain, who were at the time, the Prince and Princess of Spain.

At the closing ceremony, Federer collected his runner’s up prize whilst sporting his iconic knitted cardigan and smart trousers, all in perfect accordance with the All England Club’s all white dress code. Federer’s five year Wimbledon reign came to an end that night, and 2008 marked the year Nadal claimed his first Wimbledon title and fourth grand slam title.

That day, Nadal proved that “third time’s a charm”.