In the U.S. Open final, Roger Federer proved again what a talented tennis player he is, what a great competitor he is and also how human he (still) is… Andy Roddick played quite well during the finals and really pushed Federer, especially during the third set.  But what sets Federer apart is not just his tennis talent, but more importantly these days it is his mental strength.  He deals with adversity better than any other player although Nadal is quite close in this regard.  Federer doesn’t panic when he feels nervous or when he’s down break point or when he loses a set.  The inner calm Federer’s found the past few years is what seems to pull him through these tough moments.  It’s the confidence that comes with the success he’s had, but it’s also the confidence one needs to achieve the success he’s had.  However, despite all his trophies and titles, Federer is still human.  Like a child performing in front of his family for the first time or hoping to impress his friends, Federer admitted he felt nervous when his new “friend,” Tiger Woods, showed up to watch the finals.  Federer talked about feeling pressure to play well in front of Tiger.  Federer may now have nine Grand Slam titles, but Tiger already has 12!  One can debate which one of them is the better “athlete,” but clearly they are both superhuman legends in their own worlds, if not the whole world…