Sir Roger eclipses Rocket Rod

The ill-fated Prince Philip affair three years ago taught us Australians are not overly keen on handing national gongs to foreigners. But if Malcolm Turnbull had not axed Tony Abbott’s Knights of the Order of Australia, perhaps most of us would have made an exception for Roger Federer. After winning his sixth Australian Open and 20th Grand Slam title, the unofficial ranking as greatest of all time beckons. None other than Rod Laver — for so long considered to be that player — has backed the Swiss champion for this status. He stands out for durability — at 36, the fifth oldest to win a Grand Slam and taking titles over 15 years — and adaptability, winning on every surface, although only once on the French Open’s clay. Current world No 1 Rafael Nadal, who has won 16 Grand Slams (10 in Paris), might challenge the records in years to come, but for now Federer’s haul is peerless.

Federer’s success in Melbourne since 2004, sportsmanship and style have made him an Australian favourite. He respects our deities, exchanging tips with Ken Rosewall and Laver; lauds the crowds who flock to Melbourne Park to support him; is gracious in defeat and victory; and plays with flair and grit. If it cannot yet be an Australian who rises to eclipse Rocket Rod, it might as well be Federer. Arise, Sir Roger, knight of the order of the Australian Open and the greatest player the world has yet seen.