When Rafael Nadal won in Paris 12 months ago, he confirmed what most people already knew - that he was one of the best players ever to step onto a claycourt.
But his demolition of Roger Federer in the final - Nadal lost just four games - built the platform for the Spaniard to elevate himself to world number one and a shot at all-round greatness.
Since picking up the French Open trophy for the fourth time, Nadal has gone on to add his first non-claycourt Grand Slam titles at Wimbledon and this year's Australian Open, on both occasions beating Federer in the final again, courtesy of some stunning tennis.
If it seems like the Lawrence O'Brien trophy is being monopolized, it's because it's true. Only eight teams have won it the last 30 years, six more than once.
By comparison, 12 teams are still pressing their nose against the window, wondering if they'll ever get inside.
Not everyone can be the Lakers and Celtics, Spurs and Pistons, Bulls and Rockets, teams that enjoyed a toast or two in their lifetimes. Almost half the NBA never won a championship, and for a good many of those teams, the brass ring still looks beyond reach.
There are times when it is best to be phrase things very simply and without “sugar-coating.” Simply stated for Austrian Football it has been a horrible week which saw the club set-back first with a nightmare inducing draw against the Faroe Islands only to be followed up with today’s 3-1 destruction by Serbia in Vienna. Karel Brückner must immediately deal with the obvious flaws in performance but as I alluded to in the match preview, confidence is extremely shaken and might be the greatest problem.
Bob Bradley has confirmed he would be keen to coach in Europe after he was installed as the favourite to be Aston Villa's new manager.
Martin O'Neill stepped down as Villa boss on Monday amid reports the club's transfer policy was behind the Ulsterman's decision. Villa owner Randy Lerner is now searching for a replacement and his fellow American, and current USA coach, Bradley has emerged as a leading contender.
Drogba: I'm afraid of nothing
His country's captain and primary source of goals, Didier Drogba has already won his first battle.
Ronaldo: Don't count us out
On the eve of his country’s South Africa 2010 bow, Portugal’s captain is quietly confident.
Podolski: We're contenders for gold
Any player whose presence at the first training session of a new season prompts a turn-out in excess.
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