Loser

Watching a compilation
of some of her greatest hits
- cheeky, stylish, powerful,
formidable - I thought
'She's going to walk this.
No way is she going to lose.'

But now, already one set down,
she's struggling to get back in the game.
It's not looking good. Her famous name
won't necessarily mean she'll pull through.
But she will do, I know she will.
Legends like her never give up.

But if I'd lost the first set
and was 5-1 down in the second,
I'd be hating myself, throwing
my lousy racket to the ground,
arguing with the referee. My face
an artwork of despondency.

And I'd deserve no sympathy.
I'd know the crowd were willing
my cool, calm, talented,
impeccable opponent to beat me
to a pulp. So what would I do?
I'd lie down and let it happen.


Extra: Tennis In Colour