Wimbledon this week saw the longest match in the history of tennis. After tying up the sets at two a piece, Isner and Mahut’s match was called for darkness. They came back the next day to start the longest set ever. So long in fact that it was called again for darkness. On the third day of play Isner finally put the nail in the coffin at 70-68, unheard of in the game.

I am grateful to them for producing this incredible bit of history. The fortitude was incredible. How could they continue to hold serve for so long? But even more satisfying to me was the sportsmanship. It was more than sportsmanship, it was camaraderie. Even before the embrace at the end of the match between Isner and Mahut, I could feel the respect these two players had for one another. They shared a uniquely trying experience and allowed that experience to draw them, and everyone who watched, together.

So, thank you! It doesn’t even matter who won. The whole world is a better place because these two gentleman made in happen in a wonderful way.