The Tears In Rafa's Eyes

Nadal came out on top today,
His eighth time at the French.
He looked relieved and quite composed
While sitting on the bench.

And when that silver trophy
Was placed firmly in his hands,
A roar was heard from all the crowd,
Rejoicing in the stands.

He kissed that bowl and raised it high,
His face lit up and beaming.
I’m sure it felt surreal, a bit
Like he was merely dreaming.

His calm remained until they played
The anthem of his nation.
To Spaniards watching, this was cause
For quite a celebration.

When Rafa heard that music start,
His eyes welled up with tears,
For patriotic feelings flowed
Commingled with the cheers.

A brilliant day of tennis set 
One champion apart,
As we bore witness to
That Spanish pride within his heart.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2013

Poem

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Pettit Avatar
June 11, 2013 at 4:04 PM
Everybody should feel the experience of being a champion. You have described Sr. Nadal's moment of glory quite well.
Hicks Avatar
June 11, 2013 at 11:18 AM
To answer you question, Mel Blanc's tombstone literally DOES say that. I thought the story was too great, had to write about it!
Dietrich Avatar
June 11, 2013 at 12:43 AM
gosh, I feel stupid, I know so little about sports, I don't even know about this. GREAT poem though, Ilene.
Johnson Avatar
June 10, 2013 at 2:51 PM
Now all we need is for everybody to feel that way about the human race.
Manassian Avatar
June 10, 2013 at 5:31 AM
After Federer who is the absolute best EVER...Nadal is second! :) I started writing a poem about Federer, but never posted it! Now that I see this beautiful write, I just might get my guy some coverage! HUGS! :) <3
Hicks Avatar
June 10, 2013 at 12:47 AM
Tennis is no easy sport, you have to be FIT to play that as hardcore as the pros do. This was a wonderful dedication and put me right into the Olympics mode. Great poem!
Lamoureux Avatar
June 9, 2013 at 8:50 PM
So you are a tennis fan as well. The Nadal and Jocovich match was amazing. Ferer did great to make it that far. I am still a big Federer fan I hope he manages a few more grand slams but it's getting harder all the time. Excellent tribute to a great champion.
Anish Avatar
June 9, 2013 at 7:14 PM
Nice tribute to great atheletes!Thank you for your kind words. Peace & Love Matthew Anish
Wilson Avatar
June 9, 2013 at 6:45 PM
Ah the pride he felt is well written in your poetry here..I really enjoyed it..love,Deb
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