Masters – 20 years ago, David Nalbandian scored the victory of a lifetime against Roger Federer in the final in Shanghai

Nalbandian Reflects on Federer Rivalry: From Elevator Embarrassment to Masters Triumph

Shanghai, China – In a captivating glimpse into the world of professional tennis, former world number 3 David Nalbandian has shared a pair of unforgettable memories involving Roger Federer, ranging from a mortifying encounter to a career-defining victory. The stories, recently resurfaced, offer a unique perspective on the rivalry and camaraderie within the sport, and are quickly becoming breaking news for tennis fans worldwide. This article is optimized for Google News and SEO to deliver the latest updates instantly.

The Underwear Incident: A Monte Carlo Mishap

Nalbandian’s first recollection is a tale of youthful indiscretion and sheer awkwardness. During a Playstation game with Rafael Nadal and David Ferrer at the 2005 Monte Carlo Masters, a playful wager took a decidedly uncomfortable turn. The losing player was tasked with a quick dash to the hotel lobby… in their underwear. “Unfortunately it was non-negotiable and of course I was the one who lost,” Nalbandian recounted. The resulting scene, as he descended in the elevator, was one of utter disbelief. “I found myself with Roger Federer and Mirka in front of me. It was really a very awkward situation.” A moment he’s now able to laugh about, but one that initially filled him with profound embarrassment.

A Historic Upset: Nalbandian’s 2005 Masters Victory

The second memory, however, is far more glorious. Nalbandian’s 2005 Masters Cup triumph over Federer in Shanghai stands as the pinnacle of his career. It was a match for the ages – a grueling five-set battle lasting four hours and thirty-three minutes, filled with dramatic swings and ultimately, a stunning upset. This victory remains the last five-set final in Masters Cup history, cementing its place in tennis lore.

Federer’s Dominance… and a Rare Vulnerability

The context surrounding the 2005 Masters Cup is crucial. Federer was in the midst of a period of near-total dominance, having already secured two Grand Slam titles that year. He was on the cusp of equaling John McEnroe’s record of 81 wins and just 3 losses. His record stood at an astonishing 81-3, with 35 consecutive wins and an undefeated streak in finals stretching back to 2003. However, an ankle sprain suffered before the tournament, and limited training, subtly undermined his physical condition. “He wasn’t hurt, he wasn’t in pain, I just felt immense fatigue,” Federer admitted after the match.

An Unlikely Challenger

Nalbandian’s very presence in the Masters Cup was a story in itself. Originally outside the qualifying eight, a series of fortunate withdrawals – including those of Nadal, Safin, Hewitt, and Roddick – opened the door for the Argentinian. He seized the opportunity, battling his way to the final against all odds. The match itself saw Federer take the first two sets, but Nalbandian’s relentless pressure began to take its toll. He exploited Federer’s hampered mobility and chipped away at the Swiss star’s confidence.

A Comeback for the Ages

Trailing two sets to none, Nalbandian mounted a remarkable comeback, winning the third and fourth sets. Federer, displaying the unwavering spirit that defined his career, fought back from the brink, even earning a chance to serve for the championship at 6-5 in the fifth. But Nalbandian, fueled by instinct and courage, broke back and dominated the tie-break 7-3, securing the victory. As Nalbandian put it, if he had faced Federer in his underwear, Federer was completely stripped bare physically by the end of the match.

Gratitude and a Missed Vacation

Both players displayed remarkable sportsmanship in the aftermath. Nalbandian playfully acknowledged Roddick’s withdrawal as the catalyst for his participation, joking, “I’ll send a message to Andy (Roddick). Without him, I wasn’t here.” He also lamented the disruption to his family vacation plans. “He still ruined my vacation, he adds jokingly because I had to go to Patagonia with my family and I had warned that I would not come as a replacement. But when I knew I had a chance to play for real and not just watch others, I got on the plane.”

Nalbandian’s victory wasn’t just a triumph for the Argentinian; it was a testament to the unpredictable nature of sport and the enduring power of perseverance. It’s a story that continues to resonate with tennis fans, reminding us that even the most dominant champions can be challenged, and that sometimes, the most memorable moments come from the most unexpected places. For those seeking to understand the nuances of competitive tennis and the captivating rivalries that define the sport, this match remains a crucial chapter in the history books. Stay tuned to archyde.com for more breaking sports news and in-depth analysis.