January 2010 ~ Roger Federer The Champ

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Federer wins 10th Basel title

Roger Federer won his 10th Swiss Indoors Basel title, defeating Alex De Minaur 6-2, 6-2 to secure what the Swiss legend described as "an unbelievable" success at the home-town tournament.

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Federer to play 2020 Tokyo Olympics

Roger Federer will go for gold in 2020. The Swiss star confirmed that he will compete for Switzerland at the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo.

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Federer wins 10th Halle title

Roger Federer made history in Halle, defeating David Goffin 7-6 (2), 6-1 to win a record 10th Noventi Open title. It is the first time that Federer has earned 10 crowns at one tournament.

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Federer wins fourth Miami Open title

Roger Federer produced a championship masterclass under the Florida sun, dominating reigning champ John Isner 6-1, 6-4 to win his fourth Miami title.

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Federer makes history in Dubai, wins 100th title

Roger Federer made history at the Dubai Duty Free Championships, defeating reigning Next Gen ATP Finals champion Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-4, 6-4 to win his 100th tour-level title.

Roger flies into final

Roger will challenge for his fourth Australian Open title this Sunday after he defeated France's Jo-Wilfried Tsonga 6-2, 6-3, 6-2, wasting no time and energy.

"It's nice going through a match like that," Roger said. "I think against top players, it's always positive if you can win the first set. It won't be the same story in the next match I play here."

Roger had no problems disposing of the 2008 runner-up today. The Frenchman looked a pale shadow of his best form as our number one did what he pleased to. Tsonga had won their last encounter, in three sets in Montreal last August, but it was never a contest at their third career meeting.

Roger will play the 22nd (!) grand slam final of his career and 18th of the last 19 majors. The only break in the sequence was his semifinal loss to Djokovic in 2008 in the Australian Open, which he has won three times so far. Roger will meet Andy Murray (ATP 5) in Sunday's final. Although the head-to-head is negative for our champ (4-6), Roger has a good feeling as he had been able to defeated the Scotsman clearly in the final of the US Open 2008.

Date: 29.01.2010, Source: RF Official

Federer advances to Australian Open final

Roger Federer is through to his 22nd Grand Slam final after defeating Jo-Wilfried Tsonga 6-2, 6-3, 6-2 in a near-flawless display Friday at the Australian Open.

Federer, seeking his fourth Australian title, hopes to reverse his tear-filled exit from last year’s final when he was beaten by Rafael Nadal, the left-handed Spaniard’s first hard-court title.

This time, the man between Federer and another title here Sunday will be Andy Murray, whose motivation has been fueled by a 74-year drought for British men in Grand Slam singles. He’s taking part in his second final, having been beaten at the U.S. Open in 2008 by Federer.

Murray beat Marin Cilic in the Australian Open semifinals after ousting Nadal in the quarterfinals. Now, hopes are high in the United Kingdom that he could be the first British man since Fred Perry in 1936 to win a major singles title.

“I know he’d like to win the first for British tennis since what is it, 150,000 years?” Federer joked to the crowd amid much laughter. “The poor guy who has to go through those moments over and over again … “

Later, Federer, in a calm, casual way, sent some verbal shots to Murray.

“I don’t feel like the pressure’s really on me having to do it again, because I did it before,” said Federer, who has won a record 15 Grand Slam singles titles.

“I think he really needs it more than I do. So I think the pressure’s big on him. We’ll see how he’s going to handle it. It’s not going to be easy for him, that’s for sure.”

If Federer plays Sunday the way he did Friday against Tsonga, the drought could continue for at least another Grand Slam.

“Don’t mess with Roger,” one fan wrote on a sign at Rod Laver Arena. And the shell-shocked Tsonga didn’t.

Federer reached his 18th final in the last 19 Grand Slam events by overpowering the 2008 Australian Open finalist. His semifinal loss here to Novak Djokovic in 2008 being the only break in the finals sequence.

Federer did not face a break point against Tsonga.

“It’s nice going through a match like that,” Federer said. “I think against top players, it’s always positive if you can win the first set.

“Maybe mentally he was more fatigued than physically,” added Federer. “That’s unfortunate for him.

Tsonga hit a backhand into the net on break point to give Federer a 2-1 lead in the third set, and the match was all but over. The 24-year-old Frenchman double-faulted on break point to give Federer a 4-1 lead in the third, and Federer clinched it on his serve in 88 minutes when Tsonga hit a forehand wide.

“Yes, there are moments when it’s frustrating where you can’t put the ball where you want it and you make mistakes,” Tsonga said.

Asked to provide advice to Murray, Tsonga said: “Be ready to run.”

Date: 29.01.2010, Source: AP

Roger fights his way into semis!

Roger defeated Russia's Nikolay Davydenko 2-6, 6-3, 6-0, 7-5 at the Australian Open today to reach the semifinals. It is the the 23rd time in series that he has reached the semis at a Grand Slam tournament!

After the match, Roger said: "I was luckier today, definitely, but I played well and I am really happy now." But they both left all spectators lucky enough to be there with a match to remember. It might even have been the match of the tournament.

After one hour, at 2-6, 1-3 with Roger's chances not looking a bit dim, he turned the match within just of a few minutes - winning a breathtaking 13 games in a row. He found his serve again in the same moment as Davydenko's tennis fell to pieces. But, just as bizarrely as he imploded, Davydenko gave the match another twist as he fought his way back in the fourth set. However, the Russian's return to form came too late as Roger closed the set 7-5.

He will now play France's 10th seed Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in Friday's semi-final.

Date: 27.01.2010, Source: RF Official

Swiss star Federer shows timing is everything

The only three men to beat Roger Federer in the last 19 majors were already out of the Australian Open, leaving the Swiss star with a new threat to face.

Nikolay Davydenko’s 13-match winning streak was the hottest on the tour and included two wins over Federer during title runs at the season-ending ATP championships in November and the season-opening event at Doha this month.

The Russian unloaded everything he had on Federer for a set and a half on Wednesday and was suddenly in uncharted territory at a Grand Slam tournament.

That’s when a bit of gamesmanship and a lot of big-match experience helped Federer switch gears and win 13 straight games en route to a 2-6, 6-3, 6-0, 7-5 victory that sent Davydenko packing to join Federer’s former Grand Slam conquerors: No. 2-ranked Rafael Nadal, No. 3-ranked Novak Djokovic, and No. 4-ranked Juan Martin del Potro.

“Winning that many games in a row against a player that’s been on fire like this, it’s a great sign,” Federer said.

The win stretched his record to a 23rd consecutive Grand Slam semifinal appearance, something he rated as “definitely one of the most incredible things I have in my resume.”

Before Federer, Ivan Lendl and Rod Laver shared the record at 10.

“It’s incredible looking back on how many years that is now, you know, I’m able to deliver at Grand Slam play, especially this year,” he said. “Looking at the draw with (former No. 1-ranked Lleyton) Hewitt in the fourth round and Davydenko in the quarters, who has been on fire the last weeks and even today, you know, we saw big signs of it.

“So for some reason I was just a bit worried I was not going to make it this time in the semis. Now obviously that it’s safe again and I’ve been able to add one. It’s amazing.”

Besides his incredible run of Grand Slam semifinals that began at Wimbledon in 2004, Federer boasts three Australian Open wins among his record 15 major titles and 50 wins or more at three of the four biggest tournaments in tennis.

In Friday’s semifinals, Federer will meet Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, who removed Djokovic in a five-setter on Wednesday.

To beat Federer, Davydenko said, you have to be like the Swiss star.

“You know, to be like perfect,” he said. “He’s No. 1.”

Davydenko had lost 12 matches to Federer before gaining some confidence with his back-to-back wins.

He broke Federer’s serve in the third and fifth games, and didn’t give the Swiss even a glimpse at a break-point chance.

Federer decided to take a quick comfort break after the first set, to let the sun that had been bothering him move a little bit.

That gave Davydenko time to cool his heels inside Rod Laver Arena— unfamiliar territory for somebody more familiar with the outside courts—and time to think about the situation.

It didn’t work right away, Federer dropped serve three games later and then fell behind 3-1, but then the momentum swung dramatically.

“You’re allowed to have two toilet breaks and I never use them, and I figured maybe the sun goes by 1 centimeter to 3 centimeters … maybe it’s that one point that makes a difference,” Federer said, adding for the record: “Oh, I had to go to the toilet, too.”

Date: 27.01.2010, Source: AP

Roger marches into quarters

Roger brushed aside Lleyton Hewitt 6-2, 6-3, 6-4 today to advance to the quarter-finals of the Australian Open.

Roger said: "He played very well the last couple of times we've played. I've always had tough ones against him. He's really picked up his game, he used to have issues on serve but now that's gone. I am happy to get through because Lleyton is a great competitor." Roger further commented that his athletic and mental strengths have allowed him to advance to a series of 15 victories against Lleyton Hewitt.

Lleyton Hewitt played aggressively but after a few games Roger found his rhythm and controlled the points. He left no doubt about his form as he varied pace, placement and spin on every shot, looking at ease. Hewitt also showed good tennis but was not able to match our number one. The match between the current and former world number ones certainly was a display of tennis of excellent quality.

Roger broke Hewitt in the middle of the first set, then going on to take the set. Roger dominated the game even more in the second set, winning it 6-3.The third set was a much tighter affair, but still Roger seemed comfortable while Hewitt continued to scrap for every point on offer.

Roger's reward is a last-eight match against sixth seed Nikolay Davydenko, ATP World Tour Finals champion, against whom Roger has lost the last two matches (semi-finals at the Masters '09 in November and in Doha in January '10).

Date: 25.01.2010, Source: RF Official

Roger fresh for week two

Roger produced a convincing display on serve to progress to the fourth round of the Australian Open with a 6-3, 6-4, 6-4 victory over Albert Montañes (ATP 32).

"He didn't make many mistakes. I expected him to miss a bit more. I needed to make sure I served well because if I had a hiccup on serve it could have been an even closer game," Roger said. "I've come through a difficult draw, I feel physically fine and mentally fresh, but the opponents will get tougher from here."

Our champion broke his Spanish opponent once in each set and did not allow him a single break point on the way to today's victory. He only had a rather short period during the second set when his game did not work like he wanted it to. But he went right on to break Montañes to love to advance 5-4 in the second and then serve out the set. The third was again dominated by Roger who came to an early break, closing the match after 1 hour and 48 minutes.

Roger will now face either Lleyton Hewitt or the 2006 finalist, Marcos Baghdatis, for a place in the quarter-finals. Roger has beaten Baghdatis in all nine of their previous meetings and defeated Hewitt the last 14 times they have played each other.

Date: 23.01.2010, Source: RF Official

Federer teases Australians with migration tale

After breaking the heart of third-round opponent Albert Montanes, Roger Federer broke the hearts of millions of Australians when he said his family had nearly migrated to the country when he was in his early teens.

In a courtside interview after demolishing the Spaniard 6-3 6-4 6-4 at Rod Laver Arena on Saturday, Federer said his parents had discussed moving Down Under when his father worked a three-month stint there, but ultimately decided against it.

The idea of a missed chance to adopt the eventual 15-time grand slam champion prompted groans from thousands of local fans at centre court.

“I was maybe 12, 14 years old. I remember actually my parents having a debate, are we moving away from Switzerland to come live over here,” Federer told reporters.

“At the end, they just said, ‘look, we have all our friends over here’. And even though it’s lucrative and nice to go to Australia, they love the country, they also asked us kids.

“And we were like, whatever the parents decide. What are we gonna decide here?”

While unlikely to consider switching citizenship, Federer’s temporary residence in Australia has been prolonged for another few days with his impressive display against 31st seed Montanes.

The Swiss maestro clubbed 36 winners and 10 aces in the 108-minute victory, which preserved his record of reaching the last 16 of every grand slam since losing in the third round of the 2004 French Open.

“So far it’s been great. I’m happy the way I’m feeling. Obviously you’ll elevate your game gradually as the opponents get harder,” said Federer, bidding for his fourth title at Melbourne Park.

The Swiss, who next plays either Lleyton Hewitt or Cyprus’s Marcos Baghdatis, also fired a warning to players that have forecast the end of the Federer-Nadal grand slam hegemony, saying he and his Spanish arch-rival were still the players to beat.

“I definitely think we have (more) guys now—as they get older as well, they’re gonna win bigger tournaments and have more experience.”

“A few guys have already won slams. That’s not an easy thing to do, because, I mean, Rafa and myself are still around and making it extremely hard for guys to take home any slams.

“Because over five sets in two weeks, I think we know best how it works.”

Date: 23.01.2010, Source: Reuters

Federer eases into fourth round of the Australian Open

Roger Federer sailed into the fourth round of the Australian Open with an impressive 6-3 6-4 6-4 win over Spain’s Albert Montanes on Saturday, extending his incredible record at grand slams.

The world number one made a shaky start to the championship against Russian Igor Andreev but has gradually improved with each match.

He was in total control of his third round encounter against Montanes, ranked 32nd in the world, and has now made it through to the last 16 of every grand slam since losing in the third round of the 2004 French Open.

His next opponent will be Lleyton Hewitt or Marcos Baghdatis.

“I feel good, I feel confident,” Federer said in a courtside interview.

“Obviously as the draw goes further the matches will get harder but physically I’m fine, mentally I’m refreshed and that’s how you want to be heading into the second week.”

Date: 23.01.2010, Source: Reuters

Roger meets Prince William

ATP World No. 1 Roger Federer met HRH Prince William of Wales after his second round win at the Australian Open on Thursday.

Below are excerpts of Roger’s post-match press conference tonight:

Q. Were you warned beforehand that there may have been a Royal visitor tonight during the match?

ROGER FEDERER: Yes, I was warned.

Q. Did you expect the reaction that came with the flashes and the cheering and stuff like that?

ROGER FEDERER: For him when he walked on?

Q. Yeah.

ROGER FEDERER: Of course. I think I've had situations where someone walked in and there was big round of applause. I'm used to it because I play a lot of primetime matches where there are very important people watching.

This one tonight was obviously extremely special. It's a pleasure, of course, playing in front of him.

Q. What would be the most intimidating person that's come to watch a match of yours?

ROGER FEDERER: Well, used to be my friends and parents early on. Then it goes other athletes, actors and musicians, Royal Highness. Just moves on. So I've had plenty. Obviously depends on the situation. Obviously having legends of the game watching, for me, is very nice always.

But then, of course, where he comes from, you know, he knows tennis, and Wimbledon's big, you know. So for me it was very ‑‑ I mean, a big honor that he came to watch me.

Q. Will you get a chance to chat more informally to William later, maybe see him later tonight?

ROGER FEDERER: I saw him briefly just before the press conference. Got a little chance to talk.

Q. What did he say to you?

ROGER FEDERER: What did he say?

Q. Yeah.

ROGER FEDERER: He was happy he could make it. Yeah, I mean, I'm not gonna tell you everything he just said to me. You've got to have a little bit of a secret.

No, he looked really happy coming to a sports venue. I think he's had a very busy schedule the last few days. He shook a lot of hands, and I knew mine was one more. From what I've heard, I think he met Serena and myself, and came to watch my match.

He said he was happy that I played a little bit longer, because the match could have ended even shorter. Yeah, so it was nice.

Date: 21.01.2010, Source: RF Official

Federer shows he’s still king of centre court

Roger Federer’s straight sets demolition of Romanian Victor Hanescu on Thursday served a timely reminder to the men who would be king that on centre court he still rules supreme.

Federer’s patchy form in the leadup to the Australian Open had given fresh hope to his rivals while a shaky first-round victory over Igor Andreev on Tuesday did little to silence talk of new dynasties.

But in front of Prince William and a large audience at the Rod Laver Arena, the world number one turned in a majestic performance.

“He was happy he could make it,” Federer said of the prince, whose appearance in the stadium drew loud cheers from spectators.

“I think he’s had a very busy schedule the last few days. He shook a lot of hands, and I knew mine was one more.”

The 15-times grand slam champion seemed in a hurry to despatch the hapless Hanescu, who suffered the full brunt of his opponent’s return to form.

Federer needed only an hour and 39 minutes to advance to the third round with 52 winners.

A quick post-match chat with Prince William prompted other questions about Federer’s royal exchanges.

Had he met other royal family members at Wimbledon, asked one journalist?

“Well, the ones on court at the trophy ceremony,” he quipped. “Do those count for you, or not? Chatty-wise, no, I don’t recall. English breakfast tea? No, not yet.”

Federer next plays Albert Montanes, a man he has beaten on both previous meetings.

Rafa Nadal, the man who beat him last year for the title and dethroned him from the number one ranking for a time, may yet lie in wait in the final.

“He struggled lately against the top 10 players from what I’ve heard,” said Federer “Still, he’s not the type of guy that anyone in the top 10 wants to play against.”

Federer, who worked hard to wrest the top ranking back from Nadal last year, said he wished his reign to last forever, and would not be deposed lightly

“It’s something that you just hope it’s gonna last as long as possible,” he said. “If you lose your ranking, you hope to get it back.”

Date: 21.01.2010, Source: Reuters

Roger in perfect form

Roger played a terrific match today, dismissing Victor Hanescu 6-2, 6-3, 6-2 today to show that he is ready to go all the way for his fourth title Down Under.

"I knew the danger of Victor. He is a good player although maybe he is more accustomed to clay. I am just thrilled to be through," Roger said.

Our champ raced through the first set with ease in just 34 minutes. It took him one minute less in claiming the second set and Hanescu could only play witness to greatness in the third, as Roger dashed ahead and then closed the match. Roger hit 52 winners and was not broken once by his Romanian opponent.

Roger faces Albert Montañes on Saturday, he has beaten the Spaniard in both previous meetings. After that, he is headed towards either Lleyton Hewitt or Marcos Baghdatis.

Date: 21.01.2010, Source: RF Official

Roger survives first round scare

Roger played Igor Andreev (ATP 36) on the second day of the Australian Open. He had to work hard in a match lasting 164 minutes in order to defeat the Russian 4-6, 6-2, 7-6(2), 6-0.

"I just hoped that I was going to hang in there. He was a wonderful player and it was tough. It was a fortunate third set for me today, but all in all I'm very happy with my performance," Roger said after the match. He has never been eliminated in the first round in his eleven appearances at Melbourne Park and was thus clearly relieved.

Roger started well, controlling the first set at first, but with Andreev's powerful returns then had to admit a break and dropped the first set. He won the second set in Roger-like, efficient manner - but the third was one big battle. Facing break point, Roger hit a misjudged drop shot, but Andreev, with the court open, played long. Roger then served for the set, but won only one point, then served to stay in the set and won just two points. Everything was wide open for Andreev - who then went on to miss the chances given. In the tie-breaker, at last, normal service resumed, with our champ taking it home easily. The last set was one last race by Roger, making everything clear after the somewhat scary intermezzo.

Roger will meet the winner of the match between Chile's Juan Ignacio Chela and Romania's Victor Hanescu in the second round on Thursday.

Date: 19.01.2010, Source: RF Official

Federer overcomes early Andreev test to progress

Swiss world number one Roger Federer had some early rocky moments against tricky Russian Igor Andreev but safely negotiated his way into the second round of the Australian Open on Tuesday.

Federer, chasing his 16th Grand Slam title, dropped the opening set, but rattled home against the 37th-ranked Andreev 4-6, 6-2, 7-6 (7/2), 6-0 in two hours 44 minutes on Rod Laver Arena.

The performance gave Federer an early indication of how he stacks up in the opening Grand Slam tournament of the season after losing to Russian Nikolay Davydenko in his last two matches.

"I know if my body is there and my game is there, I can beat anybody," Federer said.

"You only see that after the first week is over, who's really in good shape and stuff.

"So the way I'm feeling now, I'm very happy. I can really concentrate on the way I want to play and not on my body or anything.

"I'm through in the second round. It's not very deep yet, but at least I got some information, and I feel like I'm playing really well."

Although he stormed through the final set to love with three service breaks, it looked early on as though the Swiss legend was facing a tough tussle against the man who took him to five sets in the fourth round at the 2008 US Open.

It needed Federer to win 6-3 in the fifth set back then to see off Andreev, but once he got over dropping the first set here he charged home.

"I knew from the start it was going to be a tough match," Federer said.

"He's got incredible acceleration on his shots, especially his forehand.

"He's very physical and intense, so I was happy with the start I got today."

"There were a few hiccups, but I think those are more due to his good play and because of also playing against the wind."

Federer broke Andreev's serve nine times, but perhaps of concern to him will have been his own serve broken five times.

Federer, who is bidding to win his fourth Australian titles, has never lost in the first round of the year's opening Grand Slam in 11 attempts.

The latest victory his Australian Open record to 48-7 as he competes in his 41st consecutive Grand Slam tournament.

If all goes to plan, Federer is projected to face Davydenko in the quarter-finals.

Andreev, who has given Federer a contest in each of their three meetings, said he had his chances but could not convert them.

"That's the difference in the rankings. That's why he's number one," Andreev said.

"Three times I had really good chances, but then something missed, something went wrong.

"The key point was third set when I didn't use the set points. Then after that I went a little bit down in the fourth physically, mentally.

Federer has missed playing in only one of the last 18 Grand Slam finals and bookmakers have again installed him the favourite to capture his 16th major title.

Last year, he finally broke through at Roland Garros, clinching the French Open at his 11th attempt and followed up with a sixth Wimbledon crown in seven years.

He became the all-time Grand Slam leader in men's tennis in the process, passing the 14 won by American Pete Sampras, while retrieving the number one ranking off Rafael Nadal.

Date: 19.01.2010, Source: AFP

Haiti fundraising a great success

The charity-match that Roger initiated has turned out to be a great success! A total of 15'000 tickets for seats in the stadium were sold (full house), about 5'000 more visitors came to see the action on the screens on the compound, which normally stays closed on Sundays.

The athletes played a doubles competition in two teams:
Team Federer: Roger, Serena Williams, Lleyton Hewitt, Samantha Stosur.
Team Nadal: Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, Andy Roddick, Kim Clijsters.

Roger's team was eventually defeated 6-7 in the show-match. All in all, the stars were able to generate about 200'000 Dollars with the event. The money will be donated to help the victims of the devastating earthquake in Haiti.

Date: 17.01.2010, Source: Roger Federer Official

Federer and Co. stage fundraiser for Haiti victims

Haiti fundraising event

Dear fans

We are going to have a fun exo at Melbourne Park tomorrow (Sunday) at 2 p.m. to help raise monies for relief efforts in Haiti from the devastating earthquake. Other top players such as Rafael Nadal, Andy Roddick, Kim Clijsters, Serena Williams and Sam Stosur will also participate. The entry fee is a minimum donation of $10. This should be fun and it's for a great cause.

I think it’s something as a tennis family we’re very happy to do. I know it’s on the eve of the first Grand Slam of the season, so it’s for some not so easy maybe mentally to separate a few things – but I think it’s a great initiative.

The devastating earthquake which hit Haiti on Tuesday measured 7.0 on the Richter Scale and has left tens of thousands of people dead. The United Nations has launched an appeal for hundreds of millions of dollars to try to help around three million people in need.

We all hope to see lots of you there to support the cause - it may be a nice day also for families to come and see some top players play!

Date: 16.01.2010, Source: Roger Federer Official

Ready for takeoff !

Having made it all the way to the final last year, Roger will start his quest for a fourth title at the Australian Open starting on Monday. It is everything but an easy way there as he is scheduled to play Russia's Igor Andreev (ATP 36) to start off with. Next up should be Argentina's Juan Ignacio Chela (ATP 75) or Romania's Victor Hanascu (ATP 47). In the third round he could meet Spain's Albert Montanes (ATP 31). After that, France's Gilles Simon (ATP 15) or Lleyton Hewitt (ATP 22) - obviously the crowd's favourite - could follow. A tough quater-final against Nikolay Davydenko, who defeated Roger in both their last matches, is possible before making it to a potential semi against Novak Djokovic..

Date: 15.01.2010, Source: Roger Federer Official

Federer given tricky draw in quest for 16th slam

Roger Federer faces a challenging path to glory if he is to extend his record grand slam haul to 16 at the Australian Open next week, kicking off with a first round test against 36th-ranked Russian Igor Andreev. In their last meeting, Andreev took Federer to five sets at the 2008 U.S. Open and should the Swiss continue his march to the fourth round, local hope Lleyton Hewitt or 11th-seeded Frenchman Gilles Simon could block his path to the quarter-finals.

Cypriot Marcos Baghdatis, who the world number one defeated for the 2006 title, also looms as a possible fourth-round opponent, ahead of a potential quarter-final against in-form Russian world number six Nikolay Davydenko.

Second seed Rafa Nadal has a much smoother route to the last eight as he sets out to defend the title he claimed in a five-set thriller against Federer a year ago.

The Mallorcan world number two was paired with low-ranked Australian Peter Luczak when the draw was made on Friday but may face a third-round hurdle against big-serving American John Isner, who knocked Andy Roddick out of the U.S. Open last year.

In the women’s draw, four-times champion and top seed Serena Williams opens against Poland’s 71st-ranked Urszula Radwanska to start what appears to be a relatively trouble-free run to the quarter-finals.

However, Russian fifth seed Elena Dementieva will need to be on her best form early on if she hopes to match or improve on her semi-final run last year after being dealt a possible second-round encounter with former number one Justine Henin.

HENIN HOPEFUL

The Belgian reached the Brisbane International final earlier this month in her first tournament back from retirement and should have too many weapons for compatriot and first-round opponent Kirsten Flipkens.

Should she continue through the tournament, Henin could set up a mouthwatering quarter-final against either French Open champion Svetlana Kuznetsova or fellow Beligian Kim Clijsters, who won the U.S. Open on her own comeback last year.

Clijsters, who needed three sets to edge Henin in Brisbane, has drawn a qualifier in the first round.

“I didn’t think that someone could come back that fast but Kim proved otherwise,” seven-time grand slam champion John McEnroe told reporters, paying tribute to the former world number one, who gave birth to daughter during her two-year break.

“Justine’s one of the great players that played. Certainly to me the three favourites are those two (Belgians) and Serena (Williams).”

Third seed and 2008 champion Novak Djokovic will open against 73rd-ranked Spaniard Daniel Gimeno-Traver, while U.S. Open champion and fourth seed Juan Martin Del Potro of Argentina faces 79th-ranked American Michael Russell.

Fifth seed Andy Murray, who carries Britain’s hopes of ending a 74-year wait for a men’s grand slam champion, will play a qualifier in the first round but faces a potential quarter-final showdown with Nadal.

Date: 15.01.2010, Source: Reuters

Federer starts bid for 16th grand slam against Andreev

World number one Roger Federer will start his bid for a 16th grand slam title against 36th-ranked Russian Igor Andreev in the first round of the Australian Open next week.

Second seed and defending champion Rafael Nadal of Spain, who beat the Swiss maestro in the final last year, was paired with local hope Peter Luczak when the draw was made on Friday.

In the women’s draw, four-times champion and top seed Serena Williams has drawn Poland’s 71st-ranked Urszula Radwanska in the first round.

Russian world number two Dinara Safina, still bidding for her first grand slam, will face Slovakia’s 44th-ranked Magdalena Rybarikova.

The 2008 men’s champion Novak Djokovic—seeded third — will play Spaniard Daniel Gimeno-Traver, the world number 73, while U.S. Open champion Juan Martin Del Potro of Argentina, the fourth seed, drew 79th-ranked American Michael Russell.

Fifth seed Andy Murray, who carries Britain’s hopes of ending a 74-year wait for a men’s grand slam champion, will play a qualifier in the first round but faces a potential quarter-final showdown with Nadal.

Women’s third seed and French Open champion Svetlana Kuznetsova of Russia will also play an Australian in world number 95 Anastasia Rodionova.

U.S. Open finalist and fourth seed Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark has drawn her Canadian near-namesake Aleksandra Wozniak.

Russian fifth seed Elena Dementieva, a semi-finalist at Melbourne Park last year, will play 43rd-ranked compatriot Vera Dushevina but faces the ominous prospect of a second-round match-up against former world number one Justine Henin.

Wildcard Henin, who made the final of the Brisbane International earlier this month in her first tournament back from retirement, has drawn compatriot Kirsten Flipkens.

Belgian 15th seed Kim Clijsters, who has netted two titles including the U.S. Open since her come-back from retirement last year, has drawn a qualifier for her first round.

The former world number one faces a potential fourth round encounter with Kuznetsova.

The Australian Open starts on Monday.

Date: 14.01.2010, Source: Reuters

Federer skips traditional Aussie Open warm-up

Roger Federer will not warm up for the Australian Open at this week’s Kooyong Classic in Melbourne, prompting organisers to target Briton Andy Murray for the vacant eighth spot in the invitational field.

World number one Federer, who thrashed compatriot Stanislas Wawrinka to win the title last year, had decided to rest before next week’s grand slam at Melbourne Park, tournament director Colin Stubs said on Monday.

“(Federer’s representative) Tony Godsick from IMG said Roger had decided to pass on the spot this year,” Stubs said. “It’s possible he’ll play an exhibition match.”

Organisers had pledged to hold a place for the 15-times grand slam champion until the day before the Jan. 13-16 tournament.

Aside from missing the 2008 event with glandular fever, Federer has been a fixture at the leafy Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club over the last six years, using it as a springboard to three Australian Open titles.

Federer’s management did not cite any reason for his decision to rest, but organisers had only rated him a “slightly better than 50-50 chance” to play, Stubs said.

Despite recapturing the world number one spot from Spanish rival Rafael Nadal last year, Federer’s 2010 campaign has got off to a spluttering start.

The 28-year-old was beaten emphatically by Russian world number six Nikolay Davydenko in the semi-finals of the Qatar Open on Friday, a week after his first loss to Swede Robin Soderling in 13 encounters at an exhibition tournament in Abu Dhabi.

Stubs said organisers were chasing British world number five Andy Murray to take the last place in the field, which boasts U.S. Open champion Juan Martin del Potro of Spain and Serbian world number three Novak Djokovic.

France’s Jo-Wilfried Tsonga and Spaniard Fernando Verdasco will also line up at Kooyong where players are guaranteed three matches on the same surface used at Melbourne Park.

Date: 10.01.2010, Source: Reuters

Roger loses semi

Roger was defeated for the second time in his 14th match against Nikolay Davydenko. He lost 4-6, 4-6 to the Russian in Doha today.

Roger fell back right in the beginning as Davydenko jumped to a 3-0 lead. Our champ did manage a re-break but that was not quite enough to catch up. Roger saw good chances for an early lead with a break in the second set which he unfortunately did not seize. Davydenko scored the break to head the second set 2-1 and eventually win the set as well as the match.

Roger was also defeated in the semi-finals in Doha last year, having played Andy Murray.

Next up is the Australian Open in Melbourne which starts on January 18th.

Date: 08.01.2010, Source: Roger Federer Official

Federer upset by Davydenko at Qatar Open

Top-ranked Roger Federer was upset by Nikolay Davydenko 6-4, 6-4 Friday in the semifinal of the Qatar Open.

The sixth-ranked Davydenko improved to 2-12 against Federer. The Russian defeated Federer at the season-ending championships in London in November.“He tried to create pressure but I came up with winners when I wanted to,” Davydenko said. “I ran a lot and that made me tired, especially in the second set. But I fought for every point.”

The upset prevents a Sunday showdown of Federer against Rafael Nadal. The second-ranked Nadal cruised past fifth-seeded Viktor Troicki of Serbia 6-1, 6-3.

“I think it will be a tough match because I have watched Rafa play,” Davydenko said. “He is playing good tennis at the moment. He can play for 10 hours, I can’t. The fans will get to watch a good match.”

Nadal and Davydenko have each won four times in head-to-head matches.

“I don’t know for how much longer I can hold this level of tennis,” Davydenko said.

The Russian got off to a fast start against Federer, breaking him in the third game when the Swiss hit two returns into the net. Ahead 2-1, Davydenko held his serve to close out the set at 6-4.

By contrast, Federer struggled with his serve.

“Yeah, he served very well, especially when he needed to. He played better,” Federer said. “I felt my arm from the cold but it is not an excuse. He served well. He made it difficult as the match went on.”

Davydenko kept up the pressure in the second set and again broke an error-prone Federer in the third game. Davydenko held his serve for the rest of the set to seal the win.

Federer heads to Melbourne for the Australian Open.

“There is nothing to worry about my arm. I will be fine,” Federer said.

Date: 08.01.2010, Source: AP

Roger fights his way into semis

Roger faced a strong opponent in Ernests Gulbis (ATP 90) today, dropping a set but finally prevailing 6-2, 4-6, 6-4 to advance to the semis in Doha.

At first, there were no signs for a tight match as Roger dominated Gulbis in all types of situations. Roger had a total of 11 break-balls in the first set, two of which he successfully converted. But as the second set progressed, the Latvian began to grow in confidence and his serve - one of the best on the Tour - became more and more difficult for Roger to handle. The first set saw early breaks by both opponents, but after our champ broke again to then serve for the set, Roger went all the way.

Roger will get back on court for his semi-final on Friday, playing the winner of the match between Nikolay Davydenko and Ivo Karlovic.

Date: 07.01.2010, Source: Roger Federer Official

Federer survives scare, Nadal through in Qatar

World number one Roger Federer had to play three sets to reach the Qatar Open semi-finals on Thursday, while number two Rafael Nadal had an easier ride when his opponent retired injured to put him in the last four.

Swiss Federer survived a scare from 21-year-old Latvian Ernests Gulbis before winning 6-2 4-6 6-4 to progress to the next round where he will face Russian third seed Nikolay Davydenko who beat big-serving Croat Ivo Karlovic 7-6 7-6.

“I’m happy to have come through a tough outing. It was pretty hard towards the end. It looked more like Gulbis gave up rather than me earning the victory,” Federer told a news conference.

“It’s pretty cold out there. That affected my game to some extent and, at times, I just couldn’t get going.”

Nadal stayed on course for a showdown with the Swiss in the final when Belgium’s Steve Darcis retired with an injured back when the Spaniard was leading 6-1 2-0 in their quarter-final.

Nadal will next play Serbia’s Viktor Troicki who overcame Poland’s Lukasz Kubot 4-6 6-4 7-6.

“This wasn’t the way I wanted to reach the semi-finals. I feel sorry for Darcis and wish him a speedy recovery. I hope he plays in the Australian Open (Jan. 18-31). When you know you aren’t well, it’s better to stop,” said Nadal.

The Spaniard, however, was happy to be in the semi-finals without dropping a set and said he was back to his best after being plagued by knee and stomach injuries during 2009.

“When I was out of action, I was watching a lot of videos of top players to stay tuned to the game. I’m now ready to win as many tournaments as possible,” he said.

“Last month, I had a shoulder problem, but I believe I’m back to my best. I may not serve as fast as Roger (Federer) or Robin (Soderling), but if I can serve between 190 and 200 kph, that’ll be fine.”

Date: 07.01.2010, Source: Reuters

Another Strong Performance

Roger defeated Evgeny Korolev (ATP 53) 6-2, 6-4 today to march on into the quarter-finals at the ATP tournament in Doha.

"I know how he plays so I had the match under control," Roger said. "He plays a lot of balls on the forehand, so I was able to stay ahead in the match. There were long rallies in the second set, but I am pleased to have reached the quarter-finals."

Once again, Roger raced into the match, taking a 3-0 lead in the first set. He broke serve a total of three times in the first set and once in the second and was always in control of the match.

Roger will play the quarter finals on Thursday where he will either meet Andreas Seppi (ITA) or Ernests Gulbis (LAT).

Date: 06.01.2010, Source: Roger Federer Official

Federer beats Korolev to reach Qatar quarterfinals

Top-ranked Roger Federer and No. 2 Rafael Nadal each won in straight sets Wednesday to reach the quarterfinals at the Qatar Open.

Federer beat Evgeny Korolev of Russia 6-2, 6-4, and Nadal defeated Potito Starace of Italy 6-2, 6-2.

Federer broke three times in the first set and once in the second. The Swiss star, who won the Qatar Open in 2005 and ’06, will play either Andreas Seppi of Italy or Ernests Gulbis of Latvia on Thursday.

“I know how he plays, so I had the match under control,” Federer said. “He plays a lot of balls on the forehand, so I was able to stay ahead in the match. There were long rallies in the second set, but I am pleased to have reached the quarterfinals.”

Federer earned his 17th win in Doha, having lost only two matches in five appearances at the tournament.

Date: 06.01.2010, Source: AP

A very promising start

Roger opened the ATP season perfecty today, cruising past Christophe Rochus of Belgium 6-1, 6-2.

"I was able to create points," Roger said. "It was good to get on a roll. My movement was explosive. I am happy how I played."

Our champ had 12 aces and 47 winners in the dominating performance. He'll face Evgeny Korolev of Russia on Wednesday.

Date: 05.01.2010, Source: Roger Federer Official

Federer, Nadal advance at Qatar Open

Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal breezed into the second round of the Qatar Open with straight-set wins on Tuesday.

Top-ranked Federer cruised past Christophe Rochus of Belgium 6-1, 6-2. Second-ranked Nadal defeated Simone Bolelli of Italy 6-3, 6-3.

With no sign of a back problem that plagued him at the start of last year, Federer launched his season by breaking Rochus in the fourth and sixth games. Rochus had three unforced errors in each game. He then broke Rochus in the first and seventh games of the second set to seal the victory.

Federer had 12 aces and 47 winners in the dominating performance. He’ll face Evgeny Korolev of Russia on Wednesday.

“I was able to create points,” Federer said. “It was good to get on a roll. My movement was explosive. I am happy how I played.”

Nadal will face Potito Starace of Italy.

“I got good practice in Abu Dhabi and that gave me good rhythm for this match,” Nadal said. “Bolelli plays good shots, so this was a tough match.”

Date: 05.01.2010, Source: AP

Federer wants to stay on the top in 2010

Now that Roger Federer is back atop the world rankings, he intends to stay there in 2010.

Federer, who faces Christophe Rochus of Belgium in the Qatar Open on Tuesday in his first competitive match of 2010, reclaimed the No. 1 ranking last year from Rafael Nadal.

“I would like to stay No. 1 for an obvious reason—getting to No. 1 from No. 2 was very hard work,” the 28-year-old Swiss player said Monday.

“Nadal played so well to stay No. 1. Now, I want to stay No. 1 for as long as possible. I am sure if I stay healthy, I can win tournaments and stay No. 1.”

Federer was dethroned at the top of the rankings in August 2008, only a few weeks after losing an epic five-set Wimbledon final to Nadal. Federer returned to No. 1 after beating Andy Roddick in last year’s Wimbledon final.

“I am healthy now,” Federer said. “I know I can win many more tournaments than I did last year. Last year was fantastic, but I am looking at one match at a time at each event I play this season. Right now, my focus is on the first match here.”

The 15-time Grand Slam champion, who won four tournaments in 2009, said he enjoys the pressure that comes with being arguably the greatest player of all time.

“There’s always pressure from one quarter or the other,” Federer said. “There’s pressure from yourself, pressure from fans, your team. But I play better under pressure.”

Winning tournaments has become easier after a decade on top, he said.

“You go back to your roots,” Federer said. “You tell yourself how you became a good player. You enjoy competition. You tell yourself how you have been around for so long. You have to have regard for the hard work you have put in.”

Federer, who competed in all 40 Grand Slam tournaments in the last decade, said his technique allowed him to avoid serious injury.

“My movements are very smooth. That has helped me stay injury-free. And if there was a niggling injury, I would listen to my body. I would listen to signals my body would give me,” Federer said.

“You have to look at the larger picture,” he added.

Date: 04.01.2010, Source: AP

Federer, Nadal Kick Off 2010 ATP World Tour In Doha

Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal today played a unique game of tennis on a magic carpet in the Souq Waqif in Doha. The two best tennis players in the world, who have arrived in Doha for one of the first three events of the year, the Qatar ExxonMobil Open, entertained the fans in the first ever match on a magic carpet, a timeless literary and legendary feature; the other two ATP World Tour events of the first week of 2010 are the Aircel Chennai Open (India) and the Brisbane International (Australia).

Federer, World No. 1 and reigning ATP World Tour Champion said: “2009 was a memorable year for me on and off the court. I look forward to the new season and it is one of my goals to hold on to the No. 1 ranking position. It was fun to play Rafa on yet another stage, we have had so many battles on a lot of different courts but this was the first time for anyone to play on a magic carpet!”

Today marks the start of the 2010 ATP World Tour (including 62 tournaments in 32 countries and culminating with the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals in London at the end of November) as players start the battle to become the 2010 ATP World Tour Champion. Federer has been the ATP World Tour Champion five times (2004-07 & ’09) while Nadal was the 2008 ATP World Tour Champion.

Date: 03.01.2010
Source: ATP World Tour

Roger Federer says he can be unbeatable again

Roger Federer expects to carry on his momentum from the middle of 2009 into the new year now that his back injury from last season has fully healed.

The Swiss star lost to Andy Murray, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic early last year before recovering to reach the final in all four Grand Slam events, winning his first French Open and then Wimbledon for his 15th major title to surpass Pete Sampras’ record.

In the first month of 2009, Federer lost to Murray in Doha and Nadal in the Australian Open final, before pulling out injured from a Davis Cup series against the United States in February. In March, Djokovic beat Federer in the Miami semifinals.

“Last year, I had problem at the start of the season with my back,” Federer said Sunday. “I lost to Murray, Djokovic and Rafa, who got the better of me at the start of the season. But I feel fine now because I have been practicing enough to feel confident of winning.”

Federer’s Roland Garros victory gave him a career Grand Slam, while the Wimbledon win helped take the No. 1 ranking from Nadal. He then reached the U.S. Open final, only to lose to Juan Martin Del Potro of Argentina, but ended the season with four titles.

“I got better and better as the season went on,” Federer said. “I was able to bounce back and was on a roll. (Winning in) Paris and Wimbledon showed that I was unbeatable. I can do it again. That’s a good feeling to have, that I can do it again.”

The Qatar Open starts Monday and Federer, a two-time champion, will meet Christophe Rochus of Belgium in his first match. He is drawn to play sixth-ranked Nikolay Davdyenko of Russia, who won the season-ending London World Tour Finals in November, in the quarterfinals.

“It is hard to be competing against the best, but I know I can win more tournaments this year,” said Federer, who finished third Saturday in the season-opening Capitala exhibition tournament in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

“I have been practicing good. The end season was short, so I feel my game is where it is supposed to be. I know I can make a few adjustments to my game and play well again.”

Nadal, who leads 13-7 over Federer in their head-to-head record, won the Abu Dhabi exhibition final by ending a two-match losing run to Robin Soderling. The Swede beat Nadal at the 2009 French Open, where the Spaniard had been unbeaten since 2005.

“I got three matches in Abu Dhabi. I felt good on court. I was moving well on the court,” Nadal said.

Nadal had chronic injuries to both knees and an abdominal complaint last season, forcing him to miss Wimbledon. Asked about his condition, the Spaniard replied: “I am OK. I feel fine. I just want to play my best tennis in every match I play. That’s my goal.”

The 10th-ranked Jo-Wilfried Tsonga of France withdrew Friday from the event because of a wrist injury.

Date: 03.01.2009

Source: AP

First victory in 2010

Roger celebrated his first victory in 2010 today. He defeated David Ferrer 6-1, 7-5 in the match for third/fourth place at the exhibition tournament in Abu Dhabi.

Next week Roger will meet Christoph Rochus (BEL, ATP 86) in the first round of the ATP tournament in Doha.

Date: 02.01.2010
Source: Roger Federer Official

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