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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.

Fans break down in tears when meeting Federer

In an interview with Tages Anzeiger, Roger Federer discusses how overwhelmed certain Brazilian fans have been when meeting him on his exhibition tour of the country.

“I met more fans that collapsed in tears than elsewhere,” he said. “It was amazing how many were shaking, had great joy and began to cry, so I take to practically take them in [my arms] and had to say: ‘It’s okay, it’s okay.’ I’m sure they are glad to see me, it’s probably a certain euphoria…I have to constantly remind myself again about where I come from, and tell myself who I am. I also like the normal life still - back to reality, family, friends, just quiet, please. And then, sure, sometimes I dip into the other incredible life I have.”

Federer did not put Davis Cup or his hometown tournament in Basel on his 2013 schedule, which has caused a stir in certain circles of Switzerland.

“I’m not be afraid to make unpopular decisions,” he said. “I plan long term and hope to play Davis Cup maybe in two, three, four years. But no one thinks, because everyone is so overtaken by the moment. And they do not understand what I’ve been through everything. In some countries Davis Cup is not important and for others it’s very important. Such decisions I don’t make from my gut, but weigh them over months. Now I came to the conclusion that for me it was probably the only right decision is not playing against the Czech Republic in early February. I could have played Davis Cup but then I would only have scheduled four or five Masters 1000 tournaments instead of eight or nine.”

Federer’s biographer, Rene Stauffer, conducted the interview, and believes that the 17-time Grand Slam champion will eventually work something out with the Basel tournament and play it in 2013. Federer says there have been communications issues with the tournament, and the decision does not rest on how much of an appearance fee he will be paid.

I’m aware that from both sides the good will is there and that it will also come out well in the end,” said Federer. “Ultimately, however, it was presented as if I do not know everything and my home tournament was no longer important. That is absolutely not true.”

Federer, who is said to earn over $50 million a year off court and is estimated to being paid around $12 million for his tour of Brazil, believes he is not being overexposed. He recently signed a new contract with Moët & Chandon.

“It is important that I’m not omnipresent, especially in Switzerland,” Federer said. “I don’t want to have Federer-overkill and therefore I say: less is more.”

Date: 27th December 2012, Source: Tennis.com

Swiss Athlete of the Year 2012

Roger Federer has been elected Swiss Athlete of the Year 2012 at the Credit Suisse Sports Awards gala. It is already the fifth award for Roger after having won it in 2003, 2004, 2006 and 2007.

"There is nothing more wonderful than receiving standing ovations in Switzerland. I do hope I can continue to spark emotions," Roger said to a thrilled audience.

"I have to practice immediately now and that’s why I have to go right now again. I want to practice very hard over Christmas and New Year and then I’m going to Australia really soon. This year was full of emotions, especially with the Olympics. I was able to show that it isn’t over yet and that I can still play good tennis. Many Swiss people were very happy for me that it went so well during the summer with Olympic silver, Wimbledon and the World No.1. I really appreciate this a lot and am grateful for it."

It was the first time since 2005 that he was able to personally attend the gala as Switzerland was an ideal stop-over between the Gillette Federer Tour through South America and his next stop Dubai.

Photo Gallery: Swiss Athlete of the Year 2012

Link: http://www.sports-awards.ch/

Date: 17th December 2012, Source: RF Official

Roger wins last match on the Gillette Federer Tour

Roger's last match on the Gillette Federer Tour was packed with great tennis and laughs as he defeated Jo-Wilfried Tsonga 7-6, 2-6, 6-3 in Bogotá. Both players proved great acting talent, making the crowd roar and cheer along.

Roger played a total of six matches on the Gillette Federer Tour, stopping in São Paulo, Buenos Aires and Bogotá. Our champ booked four victories and was defeated twice.

Now Roger can enjoy a short break before getting back into action Down Under as the Australian Open starts on January 14 and opens his 2013 season.





Full match:



Date: 16th December 2012, Source: RF Official

Federer: "The reception was amazing in South America"

Roger Federer, after his arrival in Bogota, said he did not understand why he is so well received in South America. "It's amazing," he said Federer, who will close his tour this Saturday against Tsonga.

"The arrival in South America has been spectacular, amazing. Had already been like 15 years ago, but not the same. And really do not know why I'm so well received, perhaps because I am Swiss that is neutral," he said.

Roger Federer said in Bogota that he is happy with the generation that has had to play, because he has been a kind of transition between an Andre Agassi or Pete Sampras and that of a Rafael Nadal or Novak Djokovic.

"Surely if I had not played with Rafael Nadal or Novak Djokovic would be playing with others like them. But really I've played in a transitional generation, because I got to play at the end of Sampras, and I'm still active" charismatic player said at a press conference in Bogota.

"Maybe it would have been good to play on Rod Laver era that was very nice. Nevertheless, I am happy to play in this generation of players super strong, because there are more physical, more vital and more professional, so I'm happy the generation I was born." he added.

Federer, who will play this Saturday an exhibition match against Frenchman Jo Wilfried Tsonga in the Coliseum El Campin in Bogota, also said he does not understand why he is so well received where he goes, and especially in Latin America where he visited Argentina and Brazil in addition too.

"For example to get to countries that had not visited before and Colombia, I think that people know exactly who I am and what I do and it surprised me positively," he added.

Federer who is considered the best tennis player in history also referred to comments heard for several years on his retirement. "For now I have not planned to retire and look to silence this many people, but those rumors are from three years ago, and are the comments that you should not pay much attention. Equal happened to Nadal and he intended he is retiring soon, "he said.

The possibility of returning to the world number one is not concerned about the Swiss, but acknowledges that if he wins two Grand Slam and five major tournaments certainly do it. "For about eight years my goal is to win the big tournaments, two at least and five or six major tournaments, "he said.

At 31, Roger Federer is still playing because it continues to motivate him to travel around the world and will always be better. "It motivates me to travel the world, be here for example in Colombia, and also have the desire to remain just played as a child I dreamed," he said.

Date: 15th December 2012, Source: ESPN

Roger Federer nominated for Credit Suisse Sports Awards 2012

The Credit Suisse Sports Awards 2012 will take place in Zurich on this coming Sunday and will be broadcast on SF 1 from 20:05. Our champ has already been honoured as "Swiss Athlete of the Year" four times (2003, 2004, 2006 and 2007). He now has the chance to be awarded the title for the fifth time. If so, he would equal former ski racer Vreni Schneider's record.

The other nominees:
Fabian Cancellara (cycling)
Dario Cologna (skiing)
Didier Cuche (skiing)
Beat Feuz (skiing)
Steve Guerdat (show jumping)
Matthias Kyburz (orienteering)
Iouri Podladtchikov (snowboarding)
Nino Schurter (mountain biking)
Thabo Sefolosha (basketball)

Members of the public may telephonically participate in the voting during the evening of the event. The numbers will be displayed on screen during the live broadcast on SF 1 from 20:05.

Vote for Roger and help him clinch his fifth title!

Date: 14th December 2012, Source: RF Official

Gillette Federer Tour Argentina 2012 round-up

After finishing his Gillette Federer Tour exhibition matches in Sao Paulo, Brazil, the tennis legend Roger Federer traveled to Argentina for another couple of exhibition matches with Juan Martin Del Potro.

Here is the picture of Federer standing near Iguassu falls in the border of Brazil and Argentina:




Press Conference before exhibition matches:


"I am very happy to be here. Long ago I wanted to come" said Federer.

"There is no doubt that the fact of playing against Juan Martin has been one of the incentives for my trip. Long ago I had planned this trip, but South America is just around the corner. "

"Normally the Argentines have to travel to see me, but now I traveled to see them"

Replying to a question where he was equated with Messi and Maradona, he said he was glad to be in the lot with them. "I know that athletes are usually seen as superheroes, it's fun, but I'm a normal person, I'm A terrestrial being"

Roger Federer: "Messi and I showed that despite being good guys we can be successful. And, along the way, we can enjoy life more."

He then said that Del Potro could be No. 1 and went on to give him some advice , "I was four, seven, still there is simpler to become number one. We must take into account details, make sacrifices every day of the year and deliver the best. It is a work of 365 days, with practice, rest, adaptation and travel. Trying to be in good mental and physical shape,doing the right things. Juan Martin has a very good team and it can work harder now, is a true professional."

"I consider Roger as my friend." said Del Potro.

Del Potro: "I would like to have Roger as coach." Federer smiling: "I’m a good player but a bad coach."

Cristina Fernández de Kirchner met Roger Federer:


President of Argentina Cristina Fernández de Kirchner met Roger Federer before she leaving for Garín, where she inaugurated a Sinergium Biotech laboratory.

He gifted one of his tennis racket and shirt to Cristina Fernández de Kirchner.

"I met Roger Federer, the cute boy, but he's now 31 & married with two twins, I say that to the girls". said Cristina Fernández de Kirchner.



1st exhibition match: Roger Federer suffered a 6-3, 3-6, 4-6 defeat against Del Potro.

Playing football in Boca Juniors La Bombonera Stadium: "It's a football temple as San Siro in Milan."



2nd exhibition match:


Roger made up for previous defeat against Juan Martin Del Potro, beating the Argentinian 6-4, 7-6 (1) in their second match of the Gillette Federer Tour in Argentina.

Roger will now head to Bogotá, Colombia's capital, where he will play Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in the last match of the Gillette Federer Tour through South America.

Date: 14th December 2012

Victory against Haas and now on to Argentina

Roger Federer ended the Gillette Federer Tour in Brazil with a victory in straight sets. He defeated Tommy Haas 6-4, 6-4 in a highly entertaining match between the two friends.

After having played Bellucci, Tsonga and Haas in Brazil Roger's tour of South America will now take him to Argentina. He will play Juan Martin Del Potro in Buenos Aires on December 12 and 13 at 8:30pm (local time) - watch the matches LIVE on YouTube!

Full match of Roger Federer vs Tommy Haas in Gillette Federer Tour, Sao Paulo, Brazil:



Federer and Haas playing football during the exhibition match:


Date: 10th December 2012, Source: RF Official

Roger Federer meets Pelé in Brazil


On earlier before the second Gillette Federer Tour exhibition match Roger Federer met the legendary footballer  Pele.

Roger Federer: Had the incredible honor today to meet the great legend Pele. He was so nice and his energy is amazing!!!!


Pele: I love to play tennis, and today, one of the greatest in the sport stopped by to say hello. Roger Federer, you are a true champion on and off the court.

Pele presented his Brazilian National Football Team shirt that he weared in the 1958 FIFA World Cup Final between Brazil and Sweden that took place in Råsunda Stadium, Solna, Sweden on 28 June 1958. Brazil won the World Cup by defeating Sweden as 5-2, and thus won the trophy for the first time. Pele scored twice in that match.





Roger Federer booked his first victory on the Gillette Federer Tour in Brazil today. He defeated Jo-Wilfried Tsonga 7-6, 6-3 in a spectacular match full of fun such as a little dance with the mascots.

Roger will play Tommy Haas in São Paulo on 9th December 2012 at 6:00 pm (watch live on YouTube) before moving on to Argentina.

Full match of Roger Federer vs Jo-Wilfried Tsonga:



Date: 9th December 2012

Federer hopes to play 2016 Games in Rio

Roger Federer says he won't play as often in the next few years but wants to compete in the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.

The 31-year-old Swiss star intends to be more mindful about the tournaments he plays to make sure he can keep playing at a high level.

''I have to make sure that I take care of my schedule, of my body, of my mind,'' he said Thursday. ''Hopefully, I can still stay on tour for many more years and hopefully play the Olympics here in three and a half years or so, so I have to look far ahead and not just the next six months.''

The winner of 17 Grand Slams is in Sao Paulo for exhibition matches involving Maria Sharapova, Victoria Azarenka, Serena Williams, Caroline Wozniacki, Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, Tommy Robredo, Tommy Haas and Thomaz Bellucci. The Bryan brothers, Bob and Mike, are also participating.

Federer has competed in four Olympics, winning a doubles gold in 2008 and a singles silver this year. He would love to make it to the Rio Games.

''There is a lot of passion for sports here,'' he said. ''It's a hot place to play tennis right now.''
Federer, who ended the season ranked No. 2, said this year was difficult because of additional commitments that kept him from practice and his family.

''I've played a lot of tennis. It's been a big challenge, especially with the Olympics and the Davis Cup this year,'' he said. ''I found my way back to world No. 1 and it took a lot of sacrifices. I'd like to be home a little bit more often and in a relaxed fashion.''

Still, he said it was a rewarding season.

''I'm very happy that I'm still playing at a very high level,'' said Federer, who won six titles this year, including Wimbledon. ''I had one of my best years on tour this year, and one of the most emotional ones, of course. Next year tournament victories will probably be more important than the rankings, that's why I need to make sure I practice a lot next year.''

Federer played 19 tournaments in 2012, two more than top-ranked Novak Djokovic. No. 3 Andy Murray also played 19 and Rafael Nadal, nursing a knee injury, played only 11.

''I'm not going to play 25 tournaments, but every tournament that I will be playing I'll be emotionally attached to it because I either won there before or because I've been there many times or because I love the city or the country and the fans,'' he said. ''Today I've reached a point in my life that I can pick and choose where I want to play and how much I want to play.''

One of the tournaments he left off his 2013 schedule was Miami, the Masters event in March he has played since 1999 and won twice.

''Miami was a tough decision for me,'' he said. ''But I have to take some time off, first of all, but most importantly, I need to practice. This year I couldn't practice at all. Something had to go in the calendar and that was Miami, unfortunately.''

Federer said he thinks he will need two Grand Slams and five to eight titles in other tournaments to get back to No. 1.

''It's difficult,'' he said. ''But I'm happy to set that challenge and I'll give everything I have.''

Date: 7th December 2012, Source: AP

Federer lost the 1st exhibition match in Sao Paulo

Roger Federer lost to Brazil's Thomaz Bellucci for the first time in his career on Thursday, falling 7-5, 3-6, 6-4 in an entertaining exhibition match.

World No. 33 Bellucci delighted his home fans, who provided a carnival atmosphere by chanting and singing throughout the duel.

After taking a tense first set by holding serve in the 12th game, Bellucci conceded the second set and went a break down early in the third.

But he responded by breaking back before holding serve in the 10th game to spoil Federer's hopes of winning his first match in Brazil.

"It's always great to play in front of a full house," Bellucci said after the match. "It's a special feeling to play this guy here. He is the best of all time and it was a pleasure to share the court with him."

Federer thanked fans for their support and praised the treatment he had received since arriving in Brazil.

"I am very happy to be here. It took me a while to finally come to Brazil," Federer said. "Everybody has been really good to me and I thank you all enough for showing your support."

Roger Federer vs Thomaz Bellucci full match from Roger Federer's YouTube Channel:



Roger will play Jo-Wilfried Tsonga on tomorrow (not before 9:30 local time), don't forget that this match - like all the others of the tour - will be broadcast live on his YouTube www.youtube.com/RogerFederer

Date: 7th December 2012

Gillette Federer Tour on live stream

In a move to provide greater access for all you fans, we have launched a new YouTube Channel in partnership with YouTube that will kick off by broadcasting live all matches in the upcoming Gillette Federer South American Tour.

Starting on December 6, fans around the world will be able to watch all 6 matches in the Gillette Federer Tour as they occur when Roger visits South America for the first time as a professional. The matches will be streamed live on https://www.youtube.com/user/RFtennischannel/

The match schedule is as follows:

Sao Paulo December 6 @ Not Before 9:30pm vs Thomaz Bellucci
Sao Paulo December 8 @ Not Before 9:30pm vs Jo-Wilfried Tsonga
Sao Paulo December 9 @ 6:00pm vs Tommy Haas

Buenos Aires December 12 @ 8:30pm vs Juan Martin Del Potro
Buenos Aires December 13 @ 8:30pm vs Juan Martin Del Potro
Bogota December 15 @ 6:00pm vs Jo-Wilfried Tsonga

Roger said: "I am very excited to launch my new YouTube Channel and be able to deliver to my loyal fans exciting programming that they might not otherwise have an opportunity to see. It is wonderful that we can start this initiative with these great exhibitions and I hope to be able to deliver additional events, programs and original content on my channel in the future. These are exciting times in the social media and digital world and I want to be able to provide my fans with more cool content they can find in one convenient place."

Date: 6th December 2012, Source: RF Official

Roger Federer Foundation to fight against poverty

Last year, in a study by the US-based Reputation Institute, Roger Federer was named second on a list of the world's most respected people. Behind him were Bill Gates (third) and Ban Ki-moon (11th), ahead of him only Nelson Mandela. It's fair to say the Swiss tennis star has a reputation to maintain.

With that in mind, there's a lot riding on the Roger Federer Foundation (RFF). The organisation, which partners local NGOs to support education projects for children living in poverty, was founded in 2003 – the year of Federer's first Wimbledon victory – because his parents felt it was important to give back.

Many find it unthinkable that a high-profile sportsman like Federer would pursue such a project for reasons other than PR, or to maximise sponsorship returns. Yet, as the world's sixth most marketable athlete – and fifth highest paid – the Swiss seems beyond such concerns. If anything, says the foundation's CEO, Janine Händel, Federer's altruism potentially jeopardises the very thing that puts him in a position to make a difference in the first place – his standing.

"If you do charity and you're a prominent person, it's very important you do it right," she argues. "It's a reputational risk you are taking."

Händel is in London for a panel debate about whether tennis and its richly remunerated practitioners do enough to help society. While her fellow participants – former tennis players Pat Cash, Justin Gimelstob and Ion Tiriac – chew the fundraising cud, she insists what the world needs is not more money but better invested money.

"Philanthropy is not just about money, it's about quality, how you invest in social issues, the impact you have in the field," she says. "My ambition is not to take $1 and have $1 impact. If I worked like that, I would do a bad job. My ambition is to take $1, invest it in the field, and have a $10 impact."

For 54,000 children in Malawi who will benefit from an early education initiative run by the RFF, that is good news. The project, which began in 2010 in partnership with Credit Suisse and is being implemented in conjunction with ActionAid Malawi, will run for a decade. Its aim is to harness the potential of 80 community-based childcare centres in six districts of Malawi, where almost a quarter of a million children aged six to 11 fail to enrol in school (and only about 40% of those who do complete their primary education).

Nationwide, 8,000 such centres were built in the 1990s. But education was not among the government's key development priorities for much of the following decade, and now less than 20% are functional. In keeping with the RFF's philosophy of helping communities to become self-sufficient, support is provided to locals, who carry out improvements themselves. In addition, about 800 volunteers are being trained as early childhood educators, with the emphasis on quality of learning.

One of the problems in Malawi is the quality of schooling is not developing at the same speed as access, says Händel. "There's a huge gap. That's why we focus on the quality of education." In practice, this means combining traditional academic skills with learning about social, environmental and healthcare issues.

Many people are sniffy about high-profile figures entering the humanitarian arena, but Händel is not among them. "If the money comes from sports, or from an actress, I couldn't care less," she says. "You just have to understand your role. Roger decides whether to invest in health, education or something else … but what exactly you do in education is a technical, professional decision that I can advise him on."

Händel points out that Federer understands the realities facing poor countries. "Poverty for him is something he faced as a child, because he spent his holidays with his mother's family in South Africa," she says.

Personal experience tends to shape the philanthropic activities of tennis players – think Nevada-born Andre Agassi's education foundation in Las Vegas, or the Guga Kuerten Institute, which works with disadvantaged children in the former world No 1's native Brazil – but a packed year-round schedule leaves few opportunities to visit developing countries.

It doesn't help that so few tournaments are staged in poor countries. Change, though, is problematic. "It comes down to what's viable commercially, what fits in the calendar, and what the appetite for tennis is in a given region," says Gimelstob, a player representative on the ATP World Tour directors' board, who described a summer visit to the Arthur Ashe Tennis Centre in Soweto as "heartbreaking and inspiring". "How do you tie the facility in Soweto to the opulence of the US Open? How do you manage those opposite forces?"

In the absence of easy answers, the ATP is focusing on supporting the efforts of individual players, which only adds to the importance of organisations like the RFF. In addition to the flagship Malawi project, the foundation works in Zambia, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Ethiopia, Tanzania and Switzerland. The plan is for Federer to become more hands-on following retirement.

"The foundation has a long-term vision and there will be a time when Roger will become much more involved," says Händel.

Date: 1st December 2012, Source: Guardian

Roger Federer is the new Moët & Chandon brand ambassador

In one of the most exciting partnerships ever between two worldwide icons, Moët & Chandon is proud to introduce Roger Federer as the House’s new brand ambassador. Roger Federer, with his shining aura of big bold wins and elegant moves, is the absolute natural match for Moët & Chandon, the universal symbol of global success and eternal style.

Like Moët & Chandon, the worldwide sports and lifestyle icon Roger Federer radiates boldness, elegance and generosity, from the tennis court to the red carpet to giving back to the world community. Both Moët & Chandon and Roger Federer share the values of doing what they do with excellence.

To celebrate a legendary partnership between two living legends, Moët & Chandon teamed with a third living legend: renowned photographer Patrick Demarchelier chosen for his signature style.

In his new role as brand ambassador, Federer will take centre stage in the House’s upcoming advertising campaign, certain to generate lots of buzz when it is revealed in March 2013.





Date: 30th November 2012, Source: Moet

Federer: Mirka invaluable to my career

Roger Federer praises his longtime partner and now wife, former player Mirka Vavrinec, for helping him throughout his career.

“I love my role as a father and in a few years, when I devote full time to our twin daughters, really look for what every parent wants their children: to educate them,” Federer told La Nacion. “Mirka always helped me, she’s great company. When I met her, I had no titles and now I have 76, so look at what has happened. She comes with me everywhere and her role has been very important to me and she loves to watch me play. Now, life has changed since the birth of our daughters, but we try to make it compatible with my career. She always accompanies me when she can and I think I would have retired if she did not like to accompany me. But ultimately, I live quietly. I’m very normal.”

Federer also said that if he stays healthy, Juan Martin del Potro will be an even bigger threat in 2013.

“I think your goal should be, at least to try and reach a top 4 or 5 ranking,” Federer said. “Juan Martin was playing very well this year. I hope he can maintain that level in 2013 and be more comfortable physically, and not get injured. Because unfortunately he was hurt a long time. He can fight for No. 1. I played against him many times this year, and they were very difficult matches, exciting.”

Date: 29th November 2012, Source: Tennis.com

Federer inspired by love for the game

Nine years ago, a 33-year-old Andre Agassi said following his defeat to Roger Federer at the season-ending championships: “Roger was an inspiration the way he played. It'll make me work harder to know he's out there.”

As his 2012 season came to a close with a runner-up finish at the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals, the Swiss shared what inspired him to keep going at 31 years of age.

“I think it’s the love for the game, the appreciation I get from the crowds, I guess playing for records from time to time, playing against different types of generations and playing styles,” he said. “The game has evolved sort of over the last 13-14 years I’ve been on tour. It’s changed quite a bit ever since.”

“I think you need inspiration, motivation from different angles to keep you going because it isn’t that simple just to wake up every morning and go for another travel around the world, another practice, all these other things, another fitness workout, another stretch. It’s always nice, but you need to have some success and you need to have the right reasons why you’re doing it. I think I’ve always been able to do that and I really enjoy myself out on the court.”

Federer’s love for the game was on display Monday night at The O2, where the six-time circuit finale champion thrilled the capacity crowd in a high-quality match against World No. 1 Novak Djokovic. In a shot that drew fans to their feet, Federer saved set point as he lunged to put a crosscourt forehand winner past Djokovic in the first set tie-break.



“Today was no different,” said Federer of his ability to enjoy himself on the court. “Doesn’t mean it’s not fun when you lose - it’s definitely not nice - but it also can be entertaining and fun for me if I play a match like today.

“It’s part of the puzzle that makes me motivated, trying to play against them,” he added of his rivalry against Djokovic, Andy Murray and Rafael Nadal. “But Novak, Andy and Rafa are not the only guys out there. I’m trying to play against many other guys.”

“I love playing against particularly young guys as well just because to many sometimes I’m an idol, which is very strange to me, to be honest. But it’s nice seeing them grow, see what the next generation comes up with, what kind of playing style. So for me, that would suffice, as well. Then, of course, unfortunately you have guys retiring now that are my age. That’s been fun, too, still seeing them playing as well, like Tommy Haas, Andy Roddick, Lleyton Hewitt, Juan Carlos Ferrero.”

While a few of his contemporaries, including Roddick, Ferrero and Fernando Gonzalez, retired from professional tennis this year, Federer showed no signs of slowing down in 2012. He recorded his first 70-plus match win season since 2006, and reclaimed the No. 1 South African Airways ATP Ranking following a record-equalling seventh Wimbledon triumph, breaking Pete Sampras’ record reign at the top spot.

“I think it’s been a fantastic season to be part of,” reflected Federer. “Four different Grand Slam champs. Then having the Olympics, as well, was obviously very unique. I’m very happy I stayed injury free throughout. That allowed me to basically play a full schedule almost. I’m very pleased that I was able to pick up my performance at the end of the season, like I played now this week, so obviously gives me confidence for next year.”

Date: 13th November 2012, Source: ATP

Roger Federer loses London final

Six-time champion Roger Federer lost to Novak Djokovic as 6-7(6), 5-7 in two hours and 15 minutes in ATP World Tour Finals in London.

Federer, now 6-2 lifetime in finals at the season-ending championships, received 800 points. Djokovic now trails Federer 13-16 in their Head2Head series. It was only the fourth time in the 43-year history of the event that the World No. 1 has met the World No. 2 for the title.

Wearing a regal purple-coloured shirt, Federer was relaxed and composed right from the start of the pair’s 29th meeting. Having practised with Severin Luthi, the Swiss Davis Cup captain, three hours earlier, Federer’s game was fluent as he played on the baseline to dictate the early exchanges. Djokovic, by contrast, found himself pinned in the Ad court, leaving half the court exposed. Through the first four games, Federer had hit six forehand winners, having broken Djokovic to love for a 2-0 lead.

“I was just trying to hang in there,” said Djokovic, on being 0-3 down in the first set. “It's not the first time that Roger started against me so well.  I've experienced before his aggression, really trying to put his mark on the match. I didn't know in which direction the match would really go, but I tried to convince myself that I would make a turnaround and I will fight."

In a seven-minute fourth game, Djokovic withstood a stern examination to stay in touch. Perspiring heavily, he conjured up the confidence and discipline to break back for 2-3, after Federer hit a backhand long at 30/40. In the eighth game, lasting nine minutes and 20 seconds, Federer committed six unforced errors, mainly on his forehand wing, and failed to convert four game points before Djokovic broke serve. Both players were deliberately engaging one another in backhand rallies as each attempted to establish their baseline dominance.

“I think there were too many turning points to really pinpoint one because any one of them, obviously, could have thrown the match into a different direction again in the first, and in the second, too,” admitted Federer. “More so in the first maybe because there were more twists and turns. Maybe I have a bit of regret because I had the lead twice, first before him.”

Federer fortuitously capitalised on a lapse in concentration to break back and the set was decided on a tie-break. Interestingly, Federer had won the first set on 20 occasions in their previous clashes. This time, Djokovic was in the ascendancy. Federer recovered from a 0-2 deficit and saved set point at 5-6 in an extraordinary rally, which saw the Swiss lunge and showcase his athletic prowess for a forehand winner, hit close to the net, past a motionless Djokovic. Federer mis-timed a backhand at 6-6 and Djokovic clinched the set in 72 minutes with his 11th winner, a forehand into space. The Serbian has never lost to Federer after winning the first set.

Federer regrouped immediately. The two-time reigning champion battled to win his fourth break point in a 14-minute opening game to the second set, as Djokovic committed five unforced errors to lose his serve. Federer won his service games was relative ease until the eighth game, when Djokovic created one break point opportunity. Although he failed to convert it, he was left to rue missing a short forehand that had bounced up off the net.

Djokovic stayed in touch and then benefitted from four straight errors, after Federer led 40/15 and two set point chances. Fired up, Djokovic screamed in celebration as he levelled at 5-5 after Federer struck a forehand long. Djokovic went onto win his third straight game as the pressure, and the crowd’s focus, shifted to Federer to remain in the match. Federer committed his 19th unforced error of the set (and 42nd of the final) at 30/30, as Djokovic gained championship point. Djokovic fired a backhand pass down the line at 30/40 and pumped his chest as a capacity 17,800 spectators erupted in applause. It was his 30th winner of the encounter.

“Today we had times where we had longer rallies, we had times where we had shorter rallies,” said Federer. “Like I mentioned, I think we had some great stuff out there. It was good playing such points. I think the quality was good.  I shouldn't have been broken as often as I was broken today. But then again, that obviously has something to do with Novak, as well. It was extremely close today.”

Federer, making his 11th appearance, was attempting to become the first player since Ivan Lendl to win three season-ending championship titles in a row (1985-87). The 2003-04, 2006-07, 2010-11 champion has a 42-9 tournament record. He was also looking to capture his 77th crown, which would have tied him at No. 3 with John McEnroe in the all-time title-leaders list.

This year, the 31-year-old Swiss compiled a 6-4 record in finals, including his seventh title at Wimbledon (d. Murray) and three ATP World Tour Masters 1000 events, and a 71-12 match record.

Date: 13th November 2012, Source: ATP

Federer sets up Djokovic final after beating Murray

Defending champion Roger Federer reached the final of the ATP World Tour Finals for the eighth time in 11 appearances on Sunday after a 7-6 6-2 win over Britain's Andy Murray.

''I knew that if I lose today it's the end of the season, so I gave everything I had and couldn't be more happy,'' Federer said on court after the match.

On Monday night, second seed and six-time champion Federer will look to become the first player to win three straight titles since Ivan Lendl in 1987, when he takes on top seed and 2008 winner Novak Djokovic at The O2 in London. Federer leads Djokovic 16-12 in their FedEx ATP Head2Head series.

"It's exciting, no doubt about it. I love playing against Novak," said Federer. "He's had a great year. He's had a great tournament so far... It is a big opportunity playing sort of the last match of the season, and facing off against Novak obviously is always special, especially here at the World Tour Finals."

The 31-year-old Swiss will be attempting to equal John McEnroe’s haul of 77 singles trophies for third-place overall in the all-time title-leaders list. Only Jimmy Connors (109) and Lendl (94) have won more titles in the Open Era (since 1968). By improving to 71-11 in 2012, Federer will also be bidding to win a seventh title.

A capacity crowd of 17,800 witnessed the 19th installment of Federer and Murray’s rivalry, which was a repeat of this year’s Wimbledon and London 2012 Olympics finals. Murray, with a poppy - embroidered on the left-shoulder shirt-sleeve - in observance of Remembrance Sunday, used fan support to break Federer in the opening game. By the fifth game, the two-time reigning champion was beginning to find his rhythm, despite the fact that Murray continued to mix up his tactics. Federer began to hold serve with little resistance. It spelled trouble.

At 4-3, Murray recovered from 0/30, but Federer converted a break point opportunity by drawing his opponent out wide for a forehand error. When Federer won a third straight game for a 5-4 lead, the balance of power had shifted. The Swiss was eradicating his errors and moving smoothly across the court, while Murray was struggling to win his second service points. The set was decided on a tie-break.

Murray took a 3-1 lead, after Federer mis-timed a backhand wide but he quickly regrouped to level the score. A 13-stroke rally at 4-5, ended when Murray rushed a forehand down the line. Federer was outplayed on his first set point chance, but on serve he made sure. Each player lost just three of their first service points in the opening set, which lasted 62 minutes.

"It was obviously huge," said Federer. "Basically I really tried to pull myself together in this breaker today, where I thought I didn't play great in yesterday's tie-breaker first set against del Potro, and not being able to come back. It was obviously an important moment in the match."

Enjoying the support of a pro-Federer crowd, who had turned out in force with Swiss flags, the second seed used his forehand to great effect to recover three points on Murray’s serve at 1-1. A drop shot error by Murray, seemingly running out of ideas, gave Federer a break point opportunity that he converted. Federer lost just two of his 16 service points in the set. He broke Murray for a third time in the match for a 5-2 lead. Three minutes later, Federer received applause from the crowd.

"Of course, I was looking at having lost the last two matches against him, so I thought it was up to me to change things around really and come up with a game plan that maybe was different than at the Olympics or Shanghai," said Federer. "The pressure was really on me. I'm happy with what I chose with my coaching staff today. Obviously the tournament's not over yet, I want to keep on playing well, but I'm happy that the offensive play did pay off and it gives confidence doing more like that in the upcoming match tomorrow."

“I think he played well,” said Murray. “I didn't think it was incredibly high standard in terms of length of points. There were a lot of quick points. I started the match well. He came back in [and] got the tie-break. Once he gets ahead, he's incredibly hard to stop. He tends to play better and better when he gets up. I feel like I gave him that advantage at the beginning of the second set.”

Date: 11th November 2012, Source: ATP and Reuters

Roger loses in three sets

A first defeat in this tournament for our Roger since 2009 – and to del Potro 6-7, 6-4, 3-6. He was decidedly not his usual chirpy self and was not really given time to settle into this match by a lively del Potro.

Defeat for our Roger is no disaster for the world number two as he will still qualify as group winner and meet Andy Murray in Sunday’s first semi final if, as expected, Ferrer beats an out of sorts Tipsarevic. Victory for Del Potro means that he becomes the first man for a decade to win back to back indoor matches against the Champ and he will almost certainly meet Novak Djokovic in the semi final with David Ferrer favourite to beat Janko Tipsarevic.

Roger had his chances in the opening set, squandering three break points in the eighth game for what could have been a decisive break. But the big Argentine dug deep to hang on, aided by some uncharacteristic unforced errors from Roger. The set went to the tie break and it was Del Potro who got off to a flier, racing to a 5-1 lead with some heavy hitting before eventually closing it out 7-3.

Undeterred by losing the opening set, Roger came out all guns blazing and secured an immediate break of serve to love, following it up with a love hold. The serve dominated for the rest of the set with no more break chances materialising and our Champ served out to level matters at a set apiece.

With the momentum on Roger’s side it seemed likely that he would press onwards to victory but it was Del Potro who was the more aggressive, perhaps as more was at stake in the match. The Argentine broke at the first time of asking and the break proved decisive as the world number two never threatened the Del Potro serve, Roger looking strangely out of sorts shouting and muttering to himself as unforced errors continued to flow from his racket.

The qualification scenarios would have been simplified had Roger built on an impressive second set against Del Potro. Our Champ has won the title the last two years with a perfect record but knew he was already through after straight-sets wins in his first two group matches.

The semi-final match-ups will not be decided until after tonight's match between David Ferrer and Janko Tipsarevic, even though it is now a dead rubber. Victory for Ferrer would mean it is Roger who plays Andy Murray with Del Potro playing Novak Djokovic, while a Tipsarevic win would reverse the fixtures. Roger had won 13 of his previous 16 meetings and six of seven this year with Del Potro, but the Argentinian is a player who has given him plenty of trouble.

Date: 10th November 2012, Source: RF Official

Federer beats Ferrer to reach semi-finals at World Tour Finals

Defending champion Roger Federer guaranteed his place in the last four of the ATP World Tour Finals with a straight-sets win over Spain's David Ferrer on Thursday.

The Swiss world number two, bidding for a record-extending seventh title at the end-of-season finale, dished out yet more punishment to Ferrer in a 6-4 7-6 victory at the O2, taking his career record over the tenacious Spaniard to 14-0.

Federer improved to 2-0 in round robin play this week, with his 41st victory at the season-ending championships, after withstanding break-point pressure from Ferrer. It was his 70th match win of the season (70-10) and his 40th on a hard-court (40-5). The Swiss superstar remains on course to capture his season-ending seventh title and his 77th trophy, which would tie him at No. 3 in the all-time title leaders list with John McEnroe.

first three games over a 21-minute period. Ferrer failed to convert three in the opening game, Federer converted his first in the second game, as Ferrer struck a forehand long, while Ferrer failed on three occasions in game three. At 0-3, the writing was on the wall for Ferrer, but he won three successive games with a brand of tennis that has helped him compile 73 wins in a career-best year. But Federer raised the tempo in the 10th game with two powerful groundstrokes. At 4-5, 0/40, Ferrer mis-timed a backhand wide. Playing deep behind the baseline, it was his 13th error of the 49-minute set.

Both players lost just six point on serve through eight service games in the second set. Ferrer could not convert two break point chances in the opening game, as Federer produced an exquisite angled volley and lob volley to stay alive. At 5-6, Ferrer won four straight points from 0/30 to take the set to a tie-break. Federer, who received wolf-whistles for changing his shirt, returned refreshed and opened up a 4-2 lead in the tie-break. Well-placed serves moved Federer further ahead to 6-3. He snatched at a forehand on his first match point and Ferrer hit an unreturned serve on the second. But Federer soon celebrated his 14th straight win over Ferrer.

"I'm extremely happy, it's a tough match. David's been on a great run, winning in Paris was so deserving," Federer said on court. "It was a long match and I'm extremely happy."

"Ferrer is so respected by the fellow competitors. I enjoy playing against him, not because the 14-0 record but because he's a great guy and a great competitor."

Federer, who beat Ferrer in one hour and 49 minutes, has remarkably won 29 of 32 sets in their meetings. He has now reached the season-ending semi-finals for the 10th time in 11 appearances.

Incredibly, he now has a 102-1 lifetime record against opponents aged 30 and over. His only loss came against 31-year-old Andre Agassi at the Sony Open Tennis in March 2002. Federer, aged 31, has not lost at The O2 in London since 2009 to Nikolay Davydenko, the eventual champion that year.

Date: 8th November 2012, Source: Reuters and ATP

Federer presented ATP Fans' Favourite & Sportsmanship Awards

Roger Federer, the six-time titlist at the ATP World Tour Finals, received two 2012 ATP World Tour Awards presented by Moët & Chandon on Wednesday afternoon at The O2 in London.

ATP Executive Chairman and President Brad Drewett presented the Swiss superstar with the awards for ATP Fans’ Favourite presented by RICOH for a record 10th straight year and the Stefan Edberg Sportsmanship Award for the eighth time (2004-09, 2011-12) and second year in a row.

The special ceremony took place on Centre Court at The O2.

"Stefan Edberg was my idol growing up. He was a great inspiration for me," said Federer. "I always tried to play according to the rules and be respectful to my fellow competitors. A lot of other players totally deserve this award; it's a great pleasure to win it."

"That it's voted for by fellow players makes it extra special. We have great matches all over the world and the recognition is a great feeling. We're trying to inspire the next generation."

On receiving recognition from the fans, Federer commented, "It's incredible. I got this award for the first time in 2003, the year I won Wimbledon, and every year since. It keeps me motivated and inspires me. It makes travelling so much easier. I hope I'll see you supporting tennis and me in the future. I couldn't thank you enough."

Federer plays David Ferrer, a winner of seven titles in 2012, on Thursday afternoon in a Group B round-robin clash.







Date: 7th November 2012, Source: ATP

Federer walks down memory lane

After establishing a new record with his 40th match win at the season-ending championships, defending champion Roger Federer remembered highlights from his 10 previous appearances on Tuesday at the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals.

Federer, who made his debut in 2002 with a straight-sets win over Juan Carlos Ferrero in Shanghai, shared: “I remember being extremely excited having qualified because I was somewhat close in 2001. So when I did qualify, and I played Juan Carlos, who was sort of my age, I was very excited. I played a great match, solid from both sides. I was just a bit better. And then I played well throughout.

“That was a big moment for me because I was hoping to do well, increase my ranking because I knew every match I could win possibly in the round robin stages could really help my ranking down the stretch. That's exactly what it did. I think I finished sixth in the world that year.”

The following year, Federer won his first of six circuit finale titles in Houston. He emerged undefeated from a round robin group including Andre Agassi, David Nalbandian and Ferrero, and beat then-World No. 1 Andy Roddick in the semi-finals and Agassi in the final.

“That was obviously a huge breakthrough for me because I thought I was in the toughest group with Nalbandian, Ferrero and Agassi, all three baseline players,” he said. “It's like the worst situation for me because I used to like to come in, keep the rallies short. I just lost to Nalbandian at the US Open before that; I decided that I'll try to play him from the baseline and see if it works, obviously make it through. Next thing you know, I beat Agassi in the finals as well. I realised I cannot just hang with them from the baseline but almost beat them from the baseline.”

The Swiss stated that the tournament played a pivotal role in his success to come. “That gave me an amazing confidence going to Australia, becoming World No. 1 there, beating Ferrero and Marat Safin in finals and semi-finals. That was definitely one of the big tournaments for me, turning it around, playing much better from the baseline than I actually thought I could.”

In addition to chasing his third straight title at The O2, the 31 year old will be honoured on court this week with two ATP World Tour Awards. He was selected by his fellow players as the recipient of the Stefan Edberg Sportmanship Award for an eighth time and as the winner of the ATPWorldTour.com Fan’s Favourite presented by RICOH for a record 10th consecutive year. Federer received 57 per cent of all votes cast online by fans.

“I'm very, very honoured, really, and very proud in some ways to be so well liked by so many fans around the world, just not in one particular place or one country,” said Federer. “It really seems to be everywhere I go I get a lot of fan support. For me that's a big thrill, probably one of the reasons also I'm still playing today. No doubt about it, they are inspiring me and motivating me to show up every day in practice, in the match courts, and give my best, because I do feel I have big support and I do feel I need to reward them for their support.

“Ten is an amazing number. I can't believe it's been that long. All I can say is thank you in a big way, and everybody knows that.”

Roger Federer posted a video on his facebook page to thank his fans:



Date: 7th November 2012, Source: ATP

Federer firing with straight set win at World Tour Finals

Roger Federer notched a record 40th ATP World Tour Finals match win on Tuesday when he began his quest for a seventh season-ending title with victory over Janko Tipsarevic.

Second seed Federer lost just eight of his service points to beat eighth seed Tipsarevic 6-3, 6-1 in 69 minutes in their first Group B match at The O2 in London.

Federer, who first played Juan Carlos Ferrero at the season-ending championships in 2002 when it was held in Shanghai, had previously held the most match wins record with Ivan Lendl.

"I'm happy with my level of play today against Janko, who is obviously a good player. I think it's nice conditions here. I've had a good year. It's true, I feel like I'm striking the ball well after today. I hope it's a sign for more to come hopefully."

The crowd got into Tuesday's match, complete with cowbells ringing and constant chanting for Federer.

''I'm very, very honored, really, and very proud in some ways to be so well liked by so many fans around the world, just not in one particular place or one country,'' Federer said. ''It really seems to be everywhere I go I get a lot of fan support.''

Federer raced into a 3-0 lead after nine minutes of play as Tipsarevic, who has been under the weather in recent days, struggled to adjust to the conditions. The Serbian won the fourth game, but Federer swept through the first set in 30 minutes, having hit 12 winners and committed nine unforced errors. Tipsarevic won 15 of his 22 service points.

The Swiss, who picked up the title in 2003-04, 2006-07 and 2010-11, completely dominated the second set, but Tipsarevic continued to battle, having qualified outright for the first time. Federer won five straight games from 1-1, as Tipsarevic’s forehand error count hit 13 for the match. Federer is now 40-7 lifetime at the prestigious championships.

Tipsarevic saved five of nine break points but committed 21 unforced errors in total and drops to 0-6 overall against Federer.

"I think Roger was just too good,” said Tipsarevic. “I have not been feeling great for the last couple of days, but even in the previous matches that I played Roger, I wasn't having that much success, as you can see."

Federer is bidding to lift his seventh title of 2012 and equal John McEnroe at No. 3 in the all-time title-leaders list on 77. He is now 14-7 against Top 10 opponents and 69-10 overall this year.

"I still had some little things I had to work through the last couple of days."

"Really since yesterday I feel fine. So obviously it was good for me to start on Tuesday. I'm happy with my performance today. No pain anymore anywhere. I'm happy with my level of play today."

Federer will expect to face tougher tests in the shape of Paris Masters champion David Ferrer and Juan Martin Del Potro, who beat him in the Swiss Indoors final last month.

His decision not to defend his Paris Masters 1000 title gifted Novak Djokovic the year-end No. 1 ranking, but Federer has no regrets about pulling out as he declared himself injury free for the season finale.

Date: 6th November 2012, Source: ATP and ESPN

Federer won 2012 Fans Favourite and Stefan Edberg Sportsmanship award

Roger Federer has added the 2012 Fans’ Favourite Award and the Stefan Edberg Sportsmanship Award to his collection of ATP World Tour Awards.

Swiss has been voted ATPWorldTour.com Fans’ Favourite presented by RICOH for a record 10th straight year, receiving 57 per cent of all votes cast. British No. 1 Andy Murray finished second, just ahead of Djokovic and Rafael Nadal.

Fellow players voted Federer as the winner of the Stefan Edberg Sportsmanship Award for the eighth time and second year in a row. He had won the award six straight years from 2004-09 before Rafael Nadal broke the streak in 2011. Marin Cilic, Juan Martin del Potro and David Ferrer were also nominated in this category.

Some of the Previews for 2012 ATP World Tour Finals:

 



Date: 5th November 2012, Source: ATP

Challenge Roger Federer on iPad or iPhone

"Roger Federer’s Tennis Challenge" – that's the name of the iPhone and iPad tennis game that Credit Suisse has launched in its app Les Amis du Credit Suisse. Each week, between November 5 and December 2, the best and most active players have the chance to win a prize autographed by Roger Federer. Additionally, ten caps will also be distributed among all contestants when the contest ends.

Many of us remember, almost wistfully, the era when arcade games, as they were known, took the world by storm. In the early 1970s, long before the first home computers, these precursors to today’s computer games were played on specially built game machines typically found in department stores or game arcades, and then increasingly more often by connecting add-on console boxes to televisions. The classic hit among these arcade games was the tennis game. By today's standards, the game was extremely crude: A little dot representing the "ball" moved back and forth across the screen. Players turned a control knob to move the "racket", a vertical rectangle, up and down along the edge of the screen. If the ball hit the racket, it flew back across the screen to the opponent's court – if the player missed the ball, the opponent scored a point. The game could be played with two users, or alone against the computer, and in retrospect was the world’s first successful video game.

Roger Federer as Commentator:
This classic game was the inspiration for "Roger Federer’s Tennis Challenge", which can be played on iPhones and iPads as part of the Les Amis du Credit Suisse app. Gameplay is identical to that in the original tennis game, only the graphics and user interface have been modernized, and adapted to make use of the latest technical capabilities. The racket is moved by using a touch interface, and the player can choose whether to play on clay, grass, or a hard court. Moreover, Roger Federer, who has been a global ambassador for Credit Suisse since 2009, lent his voice to the production of the app, and can be heard commentating on the match play.

Competition from November 5 to December 2, 2012:
As part of the challenge, Credit Suisse will be hosting a special competition from November 5 to December 2, 2012, during which it will be possible to win attractive Roger Federer fan merchandise every week. The main prize is always signed by the tennis star. The prize for the first week is a Roger Federer cap; in the second, it is a tennis ball, in the third a pair of tennis shoes, and in the fourth – the crowning glory – an original racket used by the tennis star. One Roger Federer cap (not autographed) and one SIGG water bottle will each be presented as second and third prizes. Ten caps will also be distributed among all contestants when the contest ends.

The main, second and third prizes will go to those contestants who have collected the most points or the second-highest and third-highest number of points. After each week – on Sunday at midnight – the game begins again. Competition participants are not eligible to win more than one prize. Detailed instructions for participation can be found in the app itself, or by clicking on the Frequently Asked Questions link. Winners will be notified by email.

Les amis du Credit Suisse:
"Roger Federer’s Tennis Challenge" is part of the Les Amis du Credit Suisse app, which was launched by Credit Suisse and its sponsorship partners, and is continuously being expanded. In addition to the tennis game, the app also offers a fascinating visit to the workroom of Alan Gilbert, conductor of the New York Philharmonic, and – to mark the occasion of last year's Da Vinci exhibition at the National Gallery in London – a historical tour through Leonardo da Vinci's studio.



Date: 2nd November 2012, Source: Credit Suisse