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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.

Federer beats Llodra, plays Lopez next

Four-time former champion Roger Federer defeated last week's Open 13 finalist Michael Llodra of France 6-0, 7-6(6) on Tuesday night at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships.

Second seed Federer won the first 11 points of the match and dropped seven points overall (five on his own serve) to win the 18-minute first set.  World No. 40 Llodra snapped a seven-game streak for 1-1 in the second set, much to the delight of the capacity crowd at The Aviation Club. The Frenchman held one set point at 6-5 in the tie-break, which Federer saved with a forehand winner.

Federer closed out his 30th match win at the ATP World Tour 500 hard-court tournament with a backhand winner to complete a 67-minute victory. He hit seven aces and won 43 of his 57 service points.

"It's always great to start off a tournament winning the first set 6-0," said Federer. "After that, I really had to sort of make sure I controlled Michael as much as I could because I know he's a dangerous player. I think I was solid. I could have served maybe a touch better. But still, I was never really in a whole lot of problems. Tie-breakers, as we saw, can go quickly either way, especially on a quick court like tonight. I hope I back it up day for day now."

The 30-year-old Federer has won his past 72 matches against players outside the Top 20 in the South African Airways ATP Rankings (last loss to No. 32 Hewitt at the Gerry Weber Open in Halle in June 2010). He has a 12-2 match record on the season, highlighted by one title at the ABN AMRO World Tennis Tournament in Rotterdam (d. del Potro).

Federer will next play unseeded Spaniard Feliciano Lopez, who saved both break points he faced to oust Nicolas Mahut 6-4, 6-4 in 69 minutes.

Date: 28.02.2012, Source: ATP

Federer hungry to add elusive medal to his vast collection

Regardless of having won a record 16 Gland Slams and 71 singles titles, Swiss great Roger Federer says he is still hungry for more success as he targets an elusive gold medal at this summer's London Olympics 2012.

Federer, who will take part in the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships which start today, also dismissed talk that one of his goals for the season was to regain the World No 1 ranking he held so emphatically two seasons ago.

"I'd love an Olympic gold, everyone knows that," he told members of the media at the iconic Burj Al Arab yesterday.

"I've had an amazing experience at all the three Olympics I've played. But this is big milestone for tennis at the Olympics, for all players of my generation. I'm really happy that it happens in our lifetime to be quite honest."

"I'm still in my prime to actually have a shot at not only playing in the Olympics, but to do well."

"That combination obviously drives me a lot to make sure I'm in good shape and a good position when I enter the tournament."

"It will be a very, very big and special atmosphere there, I'm really looking forward to it and I hope I can have a good result there."

Federer was bundled out of the 2004 Athens Olympics in the second round by Thomas Berdych, who is in his half of the draw in Dubai, and then fell to James Blake in the quarter-finals at Beijing four years later.

When asked by Gulf News if one of his goals was to regain the World No 1 ranking, Federer said: "Sure, getting to No 1 again is a long-term goal, but it doesn't drive me on a daily basis."

"I feel that if I play really well between now and through the US Open there is a shot. But then again, there's a shot for probably ten players to do that as well. So I'm aware that I'm not the only one."

"But I feel like I'm in a good run right now, won a lot of tournaments in a short period of time which obviously gives me a lot of confidence."

"But like I said the focus right now is to try to play well day by day and make it sure I get through a tough stretch here from Dubai to Miami and then we'll attack the clay eventually. So that's the plan for now."

"World No 1 will probably be decided for the majority of the players between the French Open and the US Open period, where there are so many highlights."

Federer launches his bid for a fifth title in Dubai when he plays longtime friend Michael Lodra, a player he has beaten in two previous meetings, in the first round."

"It's a tough draw against him," said the Swiss great. "He's playing well and is a funny guy. I hope he's going to put on a good show."

Federer won his last title in Dubai, his training base and a place that he often calls home, back in 2007. World No 1 Novak Djokovic has won the last three, including last year's final against the Swiss.

Date: 26.02.2012, Source: Gulf News

Federer happy for Sampras to keep his record

Roger Federer says he would be happy not to take away Pete Sampras' all-time record of 286 weeks as world number one, even though he stands only one tantalising week away from equalling it.

Federer has already superseded the American's record of Grand Slam titles - he has 16 to the retired Sampras' 14 - but is prepared to accept the possibility of not getting back to the top of the rankings.

The 30-year-old world number three from Switzerland has not won a Grand Slam title for two years, even though he defeated world number one Novak Djokovic in a sensational semi-final at last year's French Open.

Nor has he been top of the rankings himself since June 2010, though Federer still believes that his level of play makes it possible to regain the pinnacle from Djokovic.

"It would be great to having that record (286 weeks at number one) but my life is okay without it," Federer said.

"Pete is a friend of mine, and I don't need to break every record he has. If I do things the right way, it will come back. And if not, that's fine for me. Hopefully I will get back to number one and have the record.

"If I play really well from here to the US Open there is a shot at it", Federer said. "There again there is a shot for about ten players. But I feel I am on a good roll."

Federer believes that consistency, fitness and his mind set - and in particular whether he is "ready for the sacrifice and to go the distance" - are what will decide whether or not he returns to number one.

He also appears to have acquired a mellow attitude towards winning another Grand Slam title. Asked if capturing a 17th were a priority, he said: "Yes and no. I don't see it that way.

"Obviously it's a big priority, but it's not everything, or I wouldn't be playing here in Dubai. I do play 20 tournaments and not four. There are a lot of priorities. This is an Olympic year which is a big priority.

"If a Slam comes my way I will be happy to take it. I have been working hard and making the right decisions so hopefully I will pick up another one."

Federer acknowledged that both Djokovic, currently the holder of three Grand Slam titles, and Andy Murray, the first Briton since the 1930s to reach three Grand Slam finals, are both playing better.

He also admitted to being surprised at how consistent the top four men have been. But Federer was most insightful when explaining why he had not managed to add to his tally of majors in the last two years.

"Not winning Grand Slams I put down to missed opportunities rather than how I have been playing," Federer said. "I think I had tough losses which denied me a Slam.

"That was due to a bit of confidence and to mindset - maybe on my side and maybe on my opponent's side. When you are winning lots of finals you don't lose those matches I put it down to that a bit. But I think I am playing as well as I used to."

Date: 26.02.2012, Source: AFP

Federer - Nadal exhibition match in Santiago Bernabéu stadium?

Rafael Nadal is a big fan of Real Madrid. Now the Spaniard wants to fulfill a dream and play a tennis match at the Santiago Bernabéu against Roger Federer?

According to Spanish media and the radio station "La Cope" could this summer at the venerable Estadio Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid held a classic of tennis. Rafael Nadal is planning an exhibition of the stadium of his favorite football club Real Madrid - on grass.

The world number two is already in negotiations with the real bosses. As an opponent of Nadal Roger Federer as a hot candidate is up for debate. One of the greatest tennis duels in recent years would thus further reissue.

Federer and Nadal have already played against each other sometimes more in Exhibitions, most recently in December 2010 in Zurich and Madrid. The proceeds of the game in the stadium of Real would benefit the charitable foundation of the Mallorcan.

Nadal holds a deadline of the month of July and the time between the Wimbledon final (July 8) and Olympic in the eye. Both tournaments will be played on grass, so that the two stars do not need to change.

Comes into the match, well, the audience-world record for a tennis game have about 82 000 fans at the Bernabeu.

Date: 23.02.2012, Source: Blick

Federer beats Del Potro for Rotterdam title

Top seed Roger Federer lifted his first trophy of the season in Rotterdam Sunday, defeating Juan Martin del Potro 6-1, 6-4 in the ABN AMRO World Tennis Tournament final.

Federer raced out to a 5-0 lead in the first set, converting both of his break point opportunities against the Argentine. After del Potro held to get on the scoreboard, Federer served out the 34-minute set.

Del Potro settled into the match in the second set, but was broken in the fifth game by the World No. 3. Federer was pressed on his serve by the 10th-ranked del Potro, but saved all seven break points he faced throughout the match to beat the former US Open champion for the ninth time in 11 FedEx ATP Head 2 Head meetings, claiming victory in one hour and 26 minutes.

"This title marks a great start to the season. My team made a lot of sacrifices. It's been an amazing week for us. The first set I really was rock solid, while in the second it was more tight and he had his chances. I think it has to do with when you turn 30 people think you might retire instead of considering that you are on two-thirds of your career." Roger said.

"It's nice to pick up the momentum after the indoor season I had last year," Federer said.

"And then coming back here after seven years and going through this whole buzz in Rotterdam has been amazing, having a standing ovation every time I walked on and off the court. I think it was a great tournament all-around. I really enjoyed myself here and saved my best for last. That match with Davydenko was gigantic looking back now. I knew I had a chance if I got through that one. It all came together perfectly. I'll enjoy this tonight with my friends and family who are here."

"He played much better than me today," said del Potro. "I didn't take the break points when I had them. It's really difficult to beat Federer if you have the chances and don't take them. He was more confident and concentrated than me in the important moments and I think that was the key."

With the win, the Swiss extended his streak of winning at least one ATP World Tour title each season to 12 years in a row. He has triumphed at the last five indoor-hard court events he has entered, dating back to the 2010 Barclays ATP World Tour Finals, winning 25 consecutive matches. His last loss on the surface came at the hands of Gael Monfils in the BNP Paribas Masters semi-finals two years ago.

Federer improves to a 71-30 final record, while del Potro drops to 9-5 in title matches. Following the trophy ceremony, Federer completed a press conference and six TV interviews in three different languages.

After a week's break, Roger will continue his quest for 2012 titles at the ATP-500 tournament in Dubai which starts February 27.





Date: 19.02.2012, Source: ATP & RF Official

Federer, Del Potro to face off for Rotterdam crown

World No. 3 Roger Federer was tested in his ABN AMRO World Tennis Tournament semi-final by Nikolay Davydenko, but prevailed 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 to win in Rotterdam Saturday. In the final, Federer will square off against Juan Martin del Potro, after the No. 3 seed dismissed World No. 7 Tomas Berdych 6-3, 6-1. "These are the kinds of matches you need to help your confidence," stated Federer.
"Everything started to get better midway through the second set, and that's very encouraging going into the final tomorrow."

Davydenko broke for a 5-4 lead in the first set, and served it out after denying Federer a break point opportunity. He moved ahead 3-1 in the second set, before the top seed reeled off five consecutive games to even the clash at one-set all.

The Swiss had several opportunities to take hold of the match early in the third set, but Davydenko saved four break points in the opening game to hold. The Russian then had his chance to break Federer in the eighth game of the set, pinning his rival in a 0/40 hole. Federer held his nerve, winning five straight points to level at 4-4, and then broke Davydenko at love to take a 5-4 lead. He closed out the encounter on his first match point to advance in two hours and 16 minutes after winning 13 of the last 14 points of the match. "I think my mindset was there," Federer said.

"Even though I was down 0-40, I knew it wasn't over and that I still had a shot. "I had a winner's mindset. Sometimes you don't have those days, but today, I believed I could still win and I think that got me over the finish line."

Against Davydenko, Federer is now 17-2, including a season-opening win at the Qatar ExxonMobil Open in Doha. He is aiming to win his second title at the ATP World Tour 500 event, having tasted victory in 2005. The 30 year old defeated del Potro in the Australian Open quarter-finals, and holds an 8-2 mark against the former US Open champion.

Date: 19.02.2012, Source: ATP

Federer comes through tough match in Rotterdam

Top seed Roger Federer struggled to defeat Finn Jarkko Nieminen 7-5 7-6 on Friday to reach the semi-finals of the World Indoor Tournament.

The Swiss, who is this week making his first appearance in the Dutch port city since he won the title in 2005, lacked rhythm against the unseeded Nieminen. Former world number one Federer came back from 40-0 down in the 11th game to break serve on the indoor carpet and then had to rely on the tie-break to clinch victory in the second set.

“It was a tough match but important to get through,” he told reporters. “I am still getting used to the surface and tonight I struggled with my timing in the rallies.

“But I also have to give credit to Jarkko the way he played. He was really aggressive and even on his second serve he kept attacking.”

Federer, the world number three, next meets Nikolay Davydenko after the unseeded Russian put out fifth-seeded Frenchman Richard Gasquet 7-5 6-3.

Date: 18.02.2012, Source: Reuters

Roger Federer on re-inventing himself, His top 3 Grand Slam wins, Mental strength and Retirement

Roger Federer is a man of many talents, and giving honest and stirring interviews is no exception. On Tuesday evening at the Manhattan Hotel in Rotterdam, Federer participated in a JURA coffee sponsorship event, where he was interviewed in front of exclusive guests before participating in a media conference. Federer reminisced on his top three grand slam wins, spoke on overcoming obstacles and becoming mentally strong, elaborated on his love for tennis, and gave his thoughts on retirement.

Roger Federer sat, calm and relaxed, fielding questions that brought guests and journalists to both laughter and astonishment on several occasions. Dissecting a champion’s brain is no easy task, but Federer always brings new inspirations to the table.

After former ATP professional and current Rotterdam tournament director Richard Krajicek was presented with a limited edition Roger Federer coffee machine from JURA as a token of appreciation, Federer was quick to recall Krajicek’s everlasting presence in tennis. It seems that any bad blood between the two that occurred at the end of last year when Federer opposed Krajicek’s candidacy for the ATP CEO position has washed away.

“I remember when Krajicek won Wimbledon in 1996 … and he beat one of my heros back then, Pete Sampras, along the way. It’s great to see him again and still around tennis because I think it’s nice when legends and great players are still seen within the sport.”

In going back to his own history with Sampras, the only meeting between the two occurred at the 2001 Wimbledon where Federer prevailed in five sets over his hero. In those days, serve-and-volley style dominated the game. But today, the courts and technology have been built so that courts are slower, balls heavier, rallies longer, and this has all been done, as some speculate, to increase the entertainment factor for tennis fans.

“To some degree I wish that we had serve-and-volleyers in the game, but players just move and return and serve so well today that it really makes it difficult to come to the net, and then you get into the habit of playing from the baseline mostly. It’s really gotten different since I started because I did play Sampras, Krajicek, Henman and that generation, and I do miss that.” Federer then joked: “[The baseline style] doesn’t worry me too much yet, but if it stays like this for another 20 years, then I will start to worry!”

Federer was also quick to point out that “there is definitely not the outright clay-court specialist anymore or a true grass-court specialist. I think they have all merged together and today, you have to be able to play on any surface. You saw that in Davis Cup as well, as sometimes a home court advantage and choosing your own surface [as Federer’s Swiss team did], is not such an advantage anymore. We lost 5-0 this past weekend; Germany picked clay as well at home and lost 5-0 as well, so I think today players can really play on all surfaces.”

As a junior, Federer was often seen in tears following defeat and in recalling what made the difference for him during those early years, he concluded that “the biggest improvement that I have been able to make is the mental part. I used to be quite crazy when I was younger, and I eventually got my act together and started to understand why it’s so important to work hard. Once I started to work extremely hard, all of a sudden, I had this really fluid game and I was able to unlock my potential — which I knew was big but I didn’t know it was this great. I’m really amazed overall how well I’ve done.”

To hear Federer say those words reaffirms that nothing in life comes easy, even for a champion that holds countless records, including 16 grand slams and 70 career titles. People may be gifted and talented, but without the proper supplement of training and support, the world may have quickly ended up in short supply of grand slam tennis champions.

“You always have to re-invent yourself; come up with different ideas of how you can improve as a person and as a player. For me, it’s been a great evolution through the rankings from back in ’98 when I was a junior to today, and [how] the game has changed tremendously… I never thought I could play such good tennis. I really had to put in a lot of hard work. Sometimes it doesn’t look like it because it’s all so fluid and people give me so many compliments. But I did put in the hard work and there’s no way around that in the professional game of tennis.”

As he alluded to earlier, Federer credits his success to equal parts mental strength, fitness and technique, and talks about “tennis as an emotional sport” when you are just starting out in the smaller Futures and Challenger tournaments. To transition overnight to playing top players on a center court is “not so easy … as that can play a lot of tricks on your mind, and fighting your own demons is a difficult thing. I had them as well when I was younger … afraid of the unknown and [asking yourself questions] ‘How confident are you?’ and ‘Are you doing the right things?’ A lot of open questions is sometimes a difficult thing to handle — especially if you bring in the pressure, the travels and the tiredness of it all … I think if you work hard, are smart and have enough breaks, the right tournaments and schedule, the results will follow. That is my personal opinion.”

It looks like Federer has taken his own advice in conquering his “demons” and is one of the most celebrated athletes in the world. But some opponents still stump the Swiss maestro, including Rafael Nadal whom he holds a 9-18 losing record against, and Novak Djokovic, the current world number 1.

“I think the ranking doesn’t lie in our sport. I think Novak has had the best year in the last 360 somewhat days of all of us, otherwise he wouldn’t have won so many matches in a row. I think the big difference at this very moment is that he has more confidence than we do … But maybe I do struggle more against Nadal and maybe he’s the toughest competitor out there, but the other guys are equally strong, if not better at the moment, like Novak.”

And what of his current streak of not winning a major since the 2010 Australian Open?

“I think it’s in the details. I don’t think I have done a whole lot wrong. Obviously, things have changed in the last few years since having a family but I don’t put that down to less success. I just think I was extremely close but wasn’t able to push luck on my side. I had an extremely tough last year at the Grand Slam level to be honest; I think I could have won [the matches I played in].”

Never one to deflate himself, Federer took the opportunity to sit back and recall his three fondest memories of his best grand slam wins, with the first one being his first slam final win at the tender age of 21, at the 2003 Wimbledon Championships against Australian Mark Philppoussis.

“Maybe the first one just because it’s got to be!” Federer remarked. After losing in the first rounds of both the 2002 French Open and Wimbledon, and then following it up with another first round exit at the 2003 French Open, “critics were coming up and saying ‘This guy has talent, but he’ll probably never do it.’ And thank God I won Wimbledon months later,” he joked. “It was a huge relief. After that, everything seemed to hold much easier and clearer because I knew where my strengths are, where my weaknesses are and managing them. It was the ultimate dream achieved for me, winning Wimbledon, where Becker, Edberg, Sampras, all of my heroes, won so many times.”

His next memory was unexpectedly the 2005 US Open final where he beat Andre Agassi, the American’s last slam final appearance. “Playing under the lights, in New York, it’s somehow special and electrifying … The crowds were the toughest that I ever had to endure because I think people thought that Agassi was maybe going to retire if he would have beaten me … It was such a tough match to come through and the emotions were different. It proved to me that I was a worthy number 1 in the world and a good grand slam match player.”

Federer then recalled his win at the 2009 French Open “just because I chased it for so long.”  But it doesn’t end there. “The French Open has to be in there, but for some reason, I also have to put in when I was going for my fifth Wimbledon in 2007 or the ultimate grand slam record at 15 against Andy Roddick in 2009 at Wimbledon where Federer won 16-14 in the fifth set. Those two matches had something mystical about them. Borg and Sampras were sitting there and all of my heroes were there. There was “record” pressure all around me and I was sort of a character in a play. So, for me to get that Cinderella finish was amazing.”

Being in a fairytale has its disadvantages, but Federer will never admit it. With the ruggedness and brutality of today’s game, it’s rare that a player is not nursing an injury or battling exhaustion from traveling. And after 13 years on the professional tour, Federer still rarely turns down the opportunity to be an outspoken promoter of tennis, even when his schedule is packed with commitments.

“I like when there is an excitement and a buzz for tennis. I am happy when I can promote tennis in a different part of the world than just Switzerland … so I don’t mind all of the stress I have [from doing these events], I really don’t. I was aware that it was going to happen and I was prepared for it … It’s just a natural thing for me today and it gives me an opportunity to also give great stories, meet great people and I don’t mind that part of my job which is part of the joy.”

Outside of his family and friends, another aspect of his life that brings him great joy is his Foundation with the simple mission “I am Tomorrow’s Future,” and he talked about how his involvement will grow once he is no longer playing professional tennis.

“I think the involvement in a few years’ time is going to be a whole lot different. I will have a lot more time to travel and see the projects, go and do more fundraising potentially, and meet more influential people in the field of philanthropy.”

He then touched on the charity his mother instilled in his heart, and also the influence Andre Agassi played in starting his Foundation.

“My mom has always reminded me that when I do have the opportunity to give back in some shape or form, it doesn’t always need to be financially, it can also be something you donate, like time, going to a project, and helping other projects. I also remember Andre Agassi always saying that he should have started his Foundation a whole lot earlier. That quote resonated with me and I thought I would like to start somewhat early and see how it goes.”

And in many ways, Federer’s and Agassi’s Foundations have similar purposes of granting children the help to reach their full potential.

“My dream has always been to support kids ages 5 to 14 in some shape or form, [especially] through education … I am a believer that education is not something you can take away from someone, but can be translated to other people in a very positive way. We have many different projects we support all around Africa, some in South Africa, some in Zimbabwe, in Ethiopia, Malawi and Tanzania as well. We have had many different countries we have been looking at and we will be expanding more over time and as we are able to raise more money.”

But there is still time before Federer will devote himself more exclusively to his charities and retire his tennis racquet. Recently, Serena Williams stated that she no longer “loves” tennis and Federer agrees that “love of the game is not enough. You need to have the fire and wanting to become better or achieve more.” But unlike Williams in many ways, he is not afraid to show his dedication to the game by stating that playing is still “clearly on my agenda. I would like to re-live the great moments I’ve had, such as Wimbledon. Everybody says, ‘What’s the point of winning another Wimbledon?’ That’s exactly the point. I want to be there hopefully one more time, holding up the trophy, going through the goosebumps before match point, trying to show how good I still am for my team, my country, myself. There’s too many reasons not to be playing, and I’m in physically really good shape today and I feel better than I have in quite a few years.”

That is precisely the reason he is committed to playing an unusually tough schedule this year, including Davis Cup last week, Rotterdam (a tournament he has not played since winning it in 2005), Dubai, and the Summer London Olympics.

“I have a tough schedule that shows I’m very eager and trying to also maybe get back to world number 1. There are still so many things to achieve … Some of the media think ‘What else is there to achieve?’ Well, there’s always more to do in something that you really enjoy. So for me, there’s no reason to even think about how, and when, and what retirement will look like, or how it’s all going to happen. Because I think the moment you start asking yourself those questions, that means the end is near. The body will tell me, and my family, we’ll decide when it’s time for me to hang up the racquet. For the time being, I really enjoy it too much to stop.”

Date: 16.02.2012

Federer into the quarters

Roger Federer is back in Rotterdam. In front of 10.000 spectators, including Ronald Koeman, Marco Van Basten and Gio Van Bronchorst, he was ready to make his comeback, seven years after his last appearance in Ahoy.

Federer left no one dissapointed, except maybe Frenchman Nicolas Mahut, who was defeated in 67 minutes, 6-4, 6-4.

Both when he entered and left Centre Court he received incredible applauses - a clear sign of the fact that the former world number one has been missed in Rotterdam for the past seven years. It was no surprise that Ahoy was sold out on a midweek evening for the first time since the renovation last year.

"It was a tough match", Federer said, surely aware of the high expectations from the crowd. But the facts tell a different story. The 30-year-old Swiss was never in trouble, not facing a single breakpoint. Two breaks were enough to secure comfortable win.

Federer didn´t have to play fantastic, but he did occassionally show what he is able to, with some amazing passing shots. "It was a good win", Federer said. " Especially after the defeats to Nadal and Isner, which has been hard to digest".

Federer is directly into the quarters, as Youzhny pulled out with a leg injury. Federer will face Nieminen in the quarters, which is played on Friday.

Date: 16.02.2012, Source: Rotterdam

Federer: I always wanted to come back to Rotterdam

The fire still burns in Federer. He may be older, proud father of twins and no longer the world´s best tennis player, but where ever he goes, he always wants to win. Also in the ABN AMRO World Tennis Tournament, to where he returns for the first since 2005. "It is one of the greatest indoor tournaments in the world. I remmeber how great it was, and I understand that it has only improved with Richard Krajicek in charge", Federer said shortly after his arrival from Switzerland.

Federer left Ahoy Rotterdam seven years ago with a trophy in his hands. But he has never come back to defend the title. due to various reasons, such as injuries, busy schedule and other commitments. "My goal was to come back", the former world number one apologized. It seemed to fit perfectly this year, with plenty of rest and good to incorporate in my schedule. It just felt good. Ever since my debut in 1999 I have always been happy and played well here. For tennis fans who think Federer is on his farewell tour there is good news. "Let them come and fill out the stadium, but I think I can be here a few more times".

Earlier it was announced that Federer would play his first match on Wednesday night against Frenchman Nicolas Mahut. The 16-time Grand Slam winner can use the two day´s rest. The past weekend he played Davis Cup in Fribourg, where Switzerland came out short to USA and lost 0-5. "Dissapointing of course", he admitted. "Especially because of the fact that we played in front of a home crowd. But the Americans played very well and there was a fantastic atmosphere".

Date: 13.02.2012, Source: Rotterdam

Rotterdam 2012: The Draw

Roger will take part in 39th ABN AMRO World Tennis Tournament in Rotterdam this week. It is the first time for our champ to return to the Dutch tournament since winning the title in 2005 against Ivan Ljubicic.

Roger, the No. 1 seed, will play his first match on Wednesday (7.30 pm) against France's Nicolas Mahut (ATP 83). Roger won both previous encounters - 2008 in Indian Wells and 2006 in Wimbledon.

In the following round, a meeting with the winner of the match between Mikhail Youzhny (ATP 31) and Igor Kunitsyn (ATP 79) is possible. In the quarterfinals, Roger could meet Alexandr Dolgopolov (ATP 19), who he defeated last year in Basel. The Spaniard Feliciano Lopez (ATP 15) could then be waiting in the semifinals.

On the other half of the draw Tomas Berdych (ATP 7) and Juan Martin Del Potro (ATP 10), seeded as No. 2 and 3, are entering the tournament.

Date: 13.02.2012, Source: RF Official

Swiss team out of Davis Cup

Roger and Stan were defeated by America's Mike Bryan and Mardy Fish 6-4, 3-6, 3-6, 3-6 in today's doubles, giving the US Davis Cup team an unbeatable 3-0 lead over Switzerland.

Roger and Stan started well and they kept the Americans under control for a set and a half. After that, Bryan and Fish became unstoppable as athey gained early breaks in the following sets. After 2:18 hours, the hostile crowd of 7'000 people had to face the third loss of its Swiss team this weekend.

"They were simply better," Roger admitted after the match. "The balls bounced rather high due to the altitude and that caused us quite some problems."

Switzerland will now have to go into the play-offs in September to remain in the World Group.

Date: 11.02.2012, Source: RF Official

Switzerland trails 0-2 against USA in Davis Cup

SWITZERLAND 0, UNITED STATES 2: Clay, Indoor - Fribourg, Switzerland.

John Isner stunned World No. 3 Roger Federer 4-6, 6-3, 7-6(4), 6-2 to give the visiting United States a 2-0 lead against Switzerland. "It's the biggest win of my life," declared Isner. "But what it means to me, is our team is up 2-0. Hats off to Mardy for winning the first rubber. It took a lot of pressure off of me."

After winning the third set in a tie-break, Isner pulled away from the home favourite, breaking the Swiss twice in the fourth set to notch his first win in three meetings against Federer. "I shouldn't take the court if I don't believe I can go out and win this match," said Isner. "I owe a lot to captain Courier. He was on me in practise all week. He told me to do all the right things. The way I played today, that's how I need to play in all of my matches."

Isner's win ended Federer's 15-match Davis Cup singles win streak. "I thought I played at a high level, with John," Federer said. "It's a tough loss. because we're down 2-0, but we're not down and out."

In the opening rubber, World No. 8 Mardy Fish rallied to edge Stanislas Wawrinka 6-2, 4-6, 4-6, 6-1, 9-7. "It was a great feeling to win the match after losing two [like this] in Austin last year and those hurt so bad," said Fish. "I thought for a second there I wasn't going to win, but snuck it out luckily."

Fish fired 15 aces, and struck 34 forehand winners to defeat Wawrinka in four hours and 26 minutes, evening his Davis Cup singles record to a 7-7 mark.

Mike Bryan and Ryan Harrison will attempt to give the Americans an unassailable advantage when they face Federer and Wawrinka in the doubles rubber Saturday.

Date: 11.02.2012, Source: ATP

Davis Cup: The Draw

From this Friday until Sunday, the Swiss Davis Cup team meets the USA in the first round of the Davis Cup in Fribourg (Switzerland).

The draw took place today. Stanislas Wawrinka (ATP 28) will open the three-day encounter against Mardy Fish (ATP 8). Roger will then play John Isner (ATP 17) in the second match of the day.

On Saturday, Roger and Stan - Olympic doubles champions - will meet Mike Bryan and Ryan Harrison in the doubles.

On Sunday, a match between Roger and Mardy Fish is likely. And then, to decide the rubber, a match between Stan and John Isner could be on the program.

Friday (starts 1 pm)
Wawrinka (SUI) - Fish (USA)
Roger (SUI) - Isner (USA)

Saturday (starts 2.30 pm)
Roger/Wawrinka (SUI) - Bryan/Harrison (USA)

Sunday (starts at noon)
Roger (SUI) - Fish (USA)
Wawrinka (SUI) - Isner (USA)

Date: 09.02.2012, Source: RF Official

Federer eager to return to winning ways

In his last competitive match, World No. 3 Roger Federer left Rod Laver Arena with the disappointment of losing to Rafael Nadal in four sets in the semi-finals of the Australian Open sitting heavily on his shoulders.

Two weeks on, the 30 year old has regrouped and is preparing to lead Switzerland’s bid to win the Davis Cup trophy for the first time. The Swiss are set to play the USA this weekend on an indoor clay-court in Fribourg in the World Group first round.

"I am in a good state mentally and physically. I have had a great run since last year’s US Open; I had not lost until the other week," said Federer, who closed the 2011 ATP World Tour season with 17 successive wins, culminating in victory at the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals (d. Tsonga) in London.

"It was a good period for me, and I hope I can get back in winning ways this weekend," continued the Basel native. "Here in Switzerland, it is nice we got home-court advantage, and we will try to make the best of it and see where it takes us."

Switzerland and the USA have clashed four times in the Davis Cup, with Federer contributing strongly to the European team’s only victory in 2001. The right-hander was playing in just his fifth Davis Cup tie and won both his singles rubbers and teamed with Lorenzo Manta for victory in the doubles as Switzerland triumphed 3-2.

"2001 was a big win for me and a tough tie within the team for Switzerland, but we came out on top," recalled Federer. "I think it was my first emotional outburst on a tennis court because I was so exhausted on Sunday after my singles, doubles and singles.

"It definitely got me on winning ways. I beat Pete Sampras at Wimbledon (in five sets). It was the start of great things for me, and I am happy to be playing in a tie again."

Date: 08.02.2011, Source: ATP

Federer named in Swiss team

Roger Federer will play in Switzerland’s Davis Cup by BNP Paribas World Group first round clash with USA, taking place in Fribourg on 10-12 February.

Swiss captain Severin Luthi, who works with Federer on tour as a coach, has named the 16-time Grand Slam champion alongside Stanislas Wawrinka, Marco Chiudinelli and Michael Lammer in what is a full strength team for the hosts.

USA are yet to announce their line-up for the trip to Fribourg, as the deadline for player nominations isn’t until 31 January, although Andy Roddick has already admitted he won’t be available after picking up a right hamstring injury at the Australian Open.

Switzerland versus USA looks to be the pick of the World Group first round ties and Federer’s inclusion could tip the balance in favour of the Swiss, who haven’t lost a tie with the world No. 3 in the team since 2007.

The two nations have met three times before, with home advantage proving decisive on each occasion. Federer won all three rubbers when the Swiss recorded their sole victory in 2001, but he wasn’t in the side when the Americans gained revenge in 2009.

However, the most memorable tie between Switzerland and USA was their first meeting in 1992. The occasion was the Davis Cup Final when an American ‘dream team’ made up of Pete Sampras, Andre Agassi, Jim Courier and John McEnroe lifted the trophy in Fort Worth, Texas.

The action gets under at Forum Fribourg, an indoor clay court venue with a capacity of 7,500 seats, on 10 February at 1pm local time. Live streaming of the tie is available throughout the weekend on the official Davis Cup video website: DavisCup.tv

Date: 01.02.2012, Source: Davis Cup