The " Legend "

What a remarkable final - wow.... In one of the most gripping matches of his storied career, Roger Federer finally created history by surviving the longest fifth set in a Wimbledon final, and an astonishing serving performance by American Andy Roddick, to win a record 15th grand slam title.

Federer's 5-7 7-6 (8-6) 7-6 (7-5) 3-6 16-14 victory in four hours and 18 minutes came 12 months after he had suffered a heartbreaking defeat here in another epic five-set battle with Rafael Nadal.

It's a crazy match i've ever seen as i am a tennis freak. For Andy Roddick to lose three Wimbledon finals must be pretty hard to take, but Federer is a brilliant player, and to win fifteen Grand Slams is an amazing record unlikely to be beaten for a long time to come.

A sixth Wimbledon crown puts Federer behind only Pete Sampras and William Renshaw, who have both won seven, on the All-England Club honours roll. Federer also regained the world No.1 ranking that he had lost to his recent nemesis Rafael Nadal in August last year after 237 consecutive weeks at the top.

As a tennis addict I am always glued to the TV set during Wimbledon fortnight, the only thing missing this year was not seeing Nadal being able to defend his title, and Murray missing out on the final. Hopefully next year will be different but nothing can be taken away from the triumph of Roger Federer in winning again.

Get on the fast lane

Well, quite literally so! Get nitrogen for your car tyres and feel the difference for yourself. I think its not available in hyderabad still, but one of my friends from bangalore told me regarding this.

In Banaglore, you can get nitrogen for your tyres at the HP petrol pump on (Old) Airport Road itseems. And, he told me the exact address. . He said, "If you’re coming from Marathalli, then look for a Pizza Hut on your left, you'll find this place immediately after the crossing." But, i hope hyderabad also provides this facility.

They charge Rs 30 per tyre for the first fill itseems. The fill apparently lasts 6 months. Subsequent cost is Rs 10 per tyre. And, my friend also told me the following benefits :

->Car drives smoother (can vouch for it).

->You don’t have to worry about air pressure for six months (need to verify).

->Less likelihood of a tyre burst (need to verify).

->Better mileage (need to verify).

There may be some places in Hyderabad offering this service. If so, please update those locations as comments on this article.

Farewell - "MJ"

Long before Obama, Woods and Winfrey, an individual proved that race and color cannot fence someone from attaining everlasting glory and unimaginable dominance in a chosen field. Accomplishing these endeavors around a time when racial discrimination was still prevalent and in a field strictly reserved for the so-called “elite”, makes that achievement even more unique.

He was the undisputed emperor of music not just in his country but across the planet. An entire era watched him sing and dance, totally mesmerized and in awe of his beyond belief talent. At some juncture, we all tried to moon-walk like him. The world knows him as Michael Jackson, who without any iota of doubt is the all time greatest entertainer. He single handedly revitalized the pop music scene.

Michael Jackson began his music career at a tender age of 7 years. His first stint came in the Jackson 5 group that was formed along with his siblings in 60s. His solo career set off to a blazing start in 70s. His album Thriller (1982) stands out as the world’s best selling record of all time. Other albums like Off the wall, Bad, Dangerous and History are also among the world’s top selling albums.

Michael was inducted 2 times into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. His awards include multiple Guinness World Records, 13 Grammy Awards, 13 number one singles in his solo career – more than any other male artist and sale of over 750 million records worldwide, making him the world's best selling male solo pop artist.

Amidst these inconceivable peaks came unthinkable lows. His personal life and image took a severe beating as allegations of child molestation surfaced. His reclusive life style during the last decade further strengthened the media speculations. Despite these contentions, Michael’s place in the history as the most popular artist in show business is cemented.

If there is an international celebrity who is recognized in small towns and villages in India (or any country for that matter), its Michael Jackson all hands down. This is the true testament of his international fame and recognition that transcended across each and every country.

It is often said that when music transcends from an artist’s heart and soul, it has an indelible effect on the audience. And probably that’s why Michael is way up there – the best there ever was, the best there ever is and the best there ever will be. Rest in peace MJ..