In his ninth successive Grand Slam final Roger Federer equaled the record of Bjorn Borg by winning his fifth Wimbledon title in a row.
The world number one prevailed 7-6 4-6 7-6 2-6 6-2 after three hours and 45 minutes of tennis; the third longest men's single final in history and Federer’s first five-set Grand Slam final.
After three sets of stunning tennis, Federer led by two sets to one and looked in a good position to take the match in the next set, but Nadal fought hard and took his first break point since the second set with a magnificent forehand crosscourt return.
At 2-0 and 30-30 on his serve, Federer was clearly rattled when Nadal used Hawkeye to challenge a baseline call, Hawkeye deciding that a backhand shot from Nadal had clipped the back of the line.
Federer proceeded to hit a routine forehand into the net to go a double-break down, protesting to umpire during the changeover and blaming the electronic system for "killing" him.
Nadal took the set and forced Federer into his first five-set match at Wimbledon since 2001 when he beat Pete Sampras.
In the deciding set Federer had to come back from 15-40 down in two of his service games, but showed everyone exactly why he is ranked as the world number one by playing a set of breathtaking tennis, hitting stunning winners from all over the court.
Federer's 11th Grand Slam title put him third on the all-time list of winners, alongside Borg and Rod Laver, three away from the record set by Pete Sampras.
"Obviously, it's on my mind," said Federer when asked. "But it's not a thing where I say I have to beat that record. He's maybe the greatest player we've ever had."
Beaten by Federer in the Wimbledon final for the second year running, Nadal believes his rival is playing some of the best tennis in history; "If he wins 14, 15 or 13 Grand Slam titles, his level is the best in history." "I had chances to win against one of the best ever on grass. I'm disappointed now but tomorrow I'll be happy with my tournament."
Federer also took time after the match to praise his opponent, "He's playing phenomenal tennis. He's definitely improved again." He came so close today - he deserves a title."
"I'm happy it happened - and I left as the winner, so it’s perfect."
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