After all the hype and media buzz, Sachin Tendulkar finally achieved that elusive 100th ton – in a very Sachin-typical way, subdued and without pomp!
Speaking post the innings, Sachin said that he was not thinking about the milestone, but everyone else was. Everyone he met, from restaurant staff to room service to housekeeping, could only talk about one thing. And when asked what he’d like to tell future Sachin aspirants, he said that believe dreams do come true – and while he had to wait 22 years for his (winning the World Cup), it finally did come true.
Love that the “dream coming true” he talks about is winning the World Cup and not his 100th century. I know a lot of people who think he plays more for himself than his team, but this quote itself says a lot. Wonderful man – so dedicated to his game and admirably humble, despite the kind of pedestal he’s put on. Such a feat may never be achieved again, so those who saw it, know that you’ve witnessed history.
But as a friend of mine said, he was as great on each of his 99 centuries as he is now. Congratulations, Sachin – and take a bow!