The good part of sports

The amazing Wimbledon match between John Isner and Nicholas Mahut, which ended when Isner won the 5th set 70-68, showed the really, really good side of sports.  It was played during the work week, so all I got to see was the final game.

But when it was over, Isner didn't gloat or overrreact.  He smiled, he clapped for Mahut, he congratulated him.  And then Mahut was just as gracious.

Plus, the All-England Tennis Club celebrated them both (and the chair umpire, who sat through all 11 hours) with commemorative awards.

When asked if he thought the rules should be changed so this wouldn't happen again, Isner (with some understatement) said that he didn't see how it could happen again.

In case you didn't see it, here is the final game and the winning shot:

Isner and Mahut are terrific role models for all kids who play any sport.