Federer restores order after epic fightback

For all the titles and records Roger Federer owns it was his warrior heart that rescued him from the brink of defeat against Julien Benneteau and put the tennis world back on its axis following an incredible 24 hours at Wimbledon on Friday.

After great rival Rafa Nadal was bludgeoned out of the tournament by unknown Czech Lukas Rosol the previous evening, Wimbledon king Federer was two points away from following him through the exit door.

French journeyman Benneteau, a 30-year-old without a singles title to his name compared to Federer's 74, played astonishing tennis to lead by two sets under the Centre Court roof before the Swiss maestro fought back to win 4-6 6-7 6-2 7-6 6-1.

"It was a tough match, it was brutal," said 16-times major winner Federer, who has not lost before the fourth round of his last 33 grand slam tournaments since the 2004 French Open.

Julien Benneteau, the No. 29 seed, led Roger Federer, the six-time former titlist, 6-4, 7-6(3), with a nerve-free and faultless performance. Although Federer raised his game to take the third set 6-2, on six occasions in the fourth set, Benneteau came within two points of winning the third-round encounter, under a closed roof, on Centre Court.

In a pressurised tie-break, Benneteau rushed the net to save one set point at 5-6 to force Federer into a backhand error. At 6-6, the Frenchman hit a backhand long, before being forced into a forehand error on Federer’s set point opportunity.

"I did start to play better and better as the match went on, and that's kind of what I expected of myself once a set down or two sets to love down," said Federer. "That I guess comes with experience, but also experience alone is not going to win you the match. I had to push deep and extremely hard, and I'm very happy with the way things sort of happened at the end."

Federer raced through the deciding set 6-1 in 26 minutes, losing just 11 points, to leave Benneteau inconsolable. It ended Benneteau’s four-match winning streak in five-set matches.

"Mentally he's a rock. He's two sets down and he doesn't show anything. After that, if your level is a little bit lower, right here, right now he takes the opportunity,” said Benneteau. “He has a capacity also to improve his game during the match… So you have to be focussed every point, every point against him. You cannot make any mistakes."

"He arrived to win this match in five sets, and he was not in control," Benneteau said. "At the end of the fourth set, his serve was incredible. Only first serve, only first serve, only first serve. He didn't make a lot of mistakes."

"I hit the ball very well today and I was in good shape. I knew that if I wanted to have one chance to win, I should take control of the rally and be aggressive and not let him play and direct the rally with his forehand."

Date: 30.06.2012, Source: Reuters and ATP

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Roger Federer rallies past Benneteau at Wimbledon

The six-time Wimbledon champion Roger Federer overcame a two-set deficit to edge Julien Benneteau 4-6, 6-7(3), 6-2, 7-6(6), 6-1 in the third round.

The comeback marked the second time Federer has rallied from a two-sets-to-love decifit this season, after clawing back against Juan Martin del Potro in the Roland Garros quarter-finals. He has pulled off the feat eight times in his career and is now within one victory of reaching 850 wins.

The Swiss remains in contention to claim the World No. 1 South African Airways ATP Ranking, needing to win the title to overtake current No. 1 Novak Djokovic. Federer is bidding to tie Pete Sampras’ record of seven trophies at The Championships and kept his Grand Slam streak of 32 straight quarter-final appearances alive.

''It was a tough match,'' Federer said. ''Oh my God, it was brutal. Obviously, a bit of luck, maybe, on my side. Who knows? But I tried hard. I fought till the very end.''

Benneteau was within two points of victory on three occasions in the fourth set, first at 6-5, 40/40, and then at 5-5 and 6-6 in the tie-break. He went for his shots on each point, but was outdueled by Federer.

Federer was patient in his opportunity to take a lead in the match for the first time since losing a break advantage in the opening set. He converted his fourth break to move ahead 3-1 in the final set, reeling off the final five games of the match to complete the comeback in three hours and 34 minutes.

A hobbling Benneteau appeared in tears before the final point, and he dumped his last shot in the net. Fans roared as a grinning Federer gave them a triumphant wave.

''The thing, when you're down two sets to love, is to stay calm, even though it's hard, because people are freaking out, people are worried for you,'' Federer said. ''You don't have, obviously, many lives left out there. You just try to play tough and focus point for point. Sounds so boring, but it's the right thing to do out there.''

''He played so well,'' Federer said. ''He was making me doubt, obviously, for most of the match. That's a credit to him. He played amazing, I thought.''

''He proved he is great. The greatest,'' Benneteau said. ''Mentally he's a rock. He's two sets down, and he doesn't show anything.''

Federer will play 2002 semi-finalist Xavier Malisse in the fourth round. The 31-year-old Belgian won back-to-back matches over Top 20 opposition for the first time in 12 months after he defeated No. 17 seed Fernando Verdasco of Spain 1-6, 7-6(5), 6-1, 4-6, 6-3. It was his 20th match victory at the All England Club and he improved to a 16-15 season record.

Date: 29.06.2012, Source: AP and ATP

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Roger Federer's royal performance at Wimbledon

Royalty reigned supreme on Wimbledon's Centre Court on Wednesday as Roger Federer produced a majestic performance for the watching Prince Charles.

Federer bowed to the heir to the throne before his match and Charles and his wife Camilla gave the Swiss maestro a standing ovation after he thrashed Italian Fabio Fognini 6-1 6-3 6-2 to reach the third round.

Federer is now two match wins away from 850 victories (848-192). He hit 35 winners and 13 aces past Fognini in the pair’s second meeting. The Swiss also won 21 of 23 points at the net.

“I was serving well,” said Federer. “You're not going to get many chances throughout a set, maybe, against me, when I'm serving well. I didn't think it was that easy of a match. I really tried to focus hard and made sure I played sort of a clean match, which I was able to do again today.”

Prince Charles visited Wimbledon for the first time in 42 years, meeting with some former players and watching Roger Federer's match from the Royal Box on Centre Court.

"We are thrilled for the tennis family that they came to watch today," Federer said after his imperious display. Federer said it was ''a great feeling'' to play in front of the royals.

Queen Elizabeth II made a visit to the All England Club in 2010, but Charles had not attended the tournament since 1970.

As six-times champion, Federer was well aware of what the royal etiquette is on the world's most famous tennis court.

"They do brief you beforehand so that you don't do anything stupid," Federer said. "We were asked to bow which obviously is no problem."

But Federer did take time in the tunnel leading to Centre Court to explain the procedure to Fognini. They both bowed in perfect union to Prince Charles, who had in turn received his own standing ovation from fans when he appeared in the royal box above the court.

The match itself was a royal procession for Federer who never once looked in any danger.

His glorious groundstrokes and lightning fast movement across the court were greeted with unbridled admiration from the crowd. The graceful genius was at the peak of his form - except at the very start.

He drew gasps of incredulity when he lost the first two points of the match on his serve but normal service was promptly restored when he fired down two aces.

The Italian became so disheartened at the end of the first set that he did not even bother to try and chase down yet another stinging forehand from Federer. He just walked back to his chair, shoulders slumped.

Federer lost just four points on his serve in the second set and was swift to complete his clinical execution of Fognini in the third.

"I really tried to focus hard and make sure I played a clean match, "Federer said. "I served 13 aces out there today. I felt it was pretty fast."

Date: 27.06.2012, Source: Reuters

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Federer at his best in the Wimbledon opener

Roger Federer left Wimbledon debutant Albert Ramos shell-shocked after thrashing him 6-1 6-1 6-1 as the Swiss six-times champion enjoyed an easy start to the 2012 tournament on Monday.

"I was happy with the way things progressed during the match," admitted Federer. "I was able to return well, almost breaking him every single time. It was a good match for me, obviously. I felt very good out there today."

Federer, bidding to win a record-equaling seventh Wimbledon crown and a 17th overall grand slam, needed just 79 minutes on Court One to sail through the first round.

Spaniard Ramos, who had played only one previous grasscourt match, was unable to respond to Federer's skill, though he had one brief spell of fighting back.

He took the fourth game of the second set to deuce nine times and after saving four breakpoints, he put a forehand long on the fifth.

When the 24-year-old left-hander won his only game of the third set, for 5-1, the crowd gave him a big cheer but Federer, who will now face Italian Fabio Fognini, finished him off to love in the following game, concluding with his ninth ace.

Federer, who became the most successful active player on grass with his 106th win on the surface, said the ease of his win had given him a chance to practice his serve-and-volley game.

"Obviously being up a double break, or at least a break, up 30‑love on your serve, you don't feel any pressure doing it," he told a news conference.

"It's rare to be up in the scoreline like today on a regular basis. It is maybe why it is a good time to try it out, then you can use it in tougher moments, difficult moments, to throw your opponents off. Who knows if I'll need it down the stretch?"

The third seed was relaxed about being put on Court One, instead of Centre Court, for his opening match.

"I don't mind it," he said. "I actually expected it, to be quite honest. If you make it down the stretch, you will get your Centre Court matches. It was as nice on Court One today."

Date: 25.06.2012, Source: Reuters

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Federer's eyes on Nadal, Djokovic at Wimbledon

Roger Federer insists he is still hungry enough for grand slam glory and will do whatever it takes to break Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal's grip on the top prizes.

For years, Federer reigned supreme at Wimbledon, winning the grass-court grand slam six times, while also enjoying huge success at most of the other major events.

The Swiss star amassed a record 16 grand slam crowns and occupied the world number one ranking for a total of 285 weeks.

But those halcyon days must seem like a distant memory to the 30-year-old, who heads into Wimbledon, which starts on Monday, without a grand slam title to his name since the 2010 Australian Open.

That barren sequence includes successive Wimbledon quarter-final exits as Djokovic and Nadal have run amok, winning nine grand slams between them since Federer last lifted a major trophy.

Such is Nadal and Djokovic's stranglehold on the sport that they have made the last four grand slam finals a private battle for supremacy.

Having won so much in his illustrious career and with other priorities now -- Federer is a father to young twin daughters -- it has been suggested that his appetite for success has started to fade.

But Federer is adamant he is still willing to put in the hard work required to keep up with, and ultimately defeat, Djokovic and Nadal.

"My confidence is very good. I've won many tournaments, so many matches the last year or so that I feel perfect in this regard," Federer said on the eve of his 14th Wimbledon appearance.

"I'm match fit and I'm match tough right now. That's also key going into a grand slam. The hunger is obviously big. I don't think I need to elaborate too much on that."

"I've explained many times how hungry and motivated I am to be playing, playing at this high level, wanting to win the big tournaments."

He is currently ranked third in the world, yet could regain the number one spot if he wins Wimbledon for a record-equalling seventh time.

Moving level with Pete Sampras is a significant motivation, but Federer, seeded third, is more concerned with breaking the Djokovic-Nadal duopoly.

"They've done amazing the last years," Federer said. "Obviously Novak stood out the most because of his amazing streak last year but then Rafa was able to defend his French Open title."

"It wasn't a surprise, but it's always impressive to see Rafa do that. As long as they're No.1 and No.2, they don't face each other in the semis. It's maybe a good thing for them and a hard thing for others."

"At the same time I've very close to breaking that and hopefully I can make a run here at Wimbledon. I fancy my chances here and at the US Open."

Even if Federer has had to play second fiddle to Djokovic and Nadal too often recently, he will always back himself at Wimbledon, especially when the draw appears as favourable as this year.

Federer plays Spain's Albert Ramos in the first round and his path to the semi-finals, where he is scheduled to meet world number one Djokovic, appears relatively straightforward.

"I am dreaming of the title. There's no denying that. But I've played two quarter-finals now the last couple years. I want to do better," Federer said.

"A seventh title here would be amazing. That would be tying Pete, which I think would be absolutely fantastic after admiring Pete when I was younger."

Date: 23.06.2012, Source: AFP

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McEnroe picks Federer to make it 7 Wimbledon titles

John McEnroe believes that Roger Federer will draw level with Pete Sampras on seven Wimbledon titles by winning The Championships at the All England Club.

McEnroe says that the grass of SW19 is Federer’s best chance of adding to his record haul of 16 Grand Slam titles.

“I'm picking him Federer to win this year at Wimbledon,” said McEnroe, in a conference call to launch ESPN’s coverage of The Championships.

“Even though it looks like the gap has grown between the other two (Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal) and him, to me Wimbledon is Federer’s best chance to win another major.  He seems to still want it as much as he ever has.  He’s a lot better athlete than he's given credit for.  His movement has allowed him to remain incredibly healthy for the most part - I think this is going to be his 52nd straight major.  He's been to 32 straight quarters or better.  His record speaks for itself. I think he's got a great chance this year. Certainly at Wimbledon he has a shot the next couple years to me.”

Federer’s most recent Wimbledon title came in 2009 when he defeated Andy Roddick 16-14 in the final set, and McEnroe feels that the two things he needs to do more this year are to attack the net, and use the energy of the crowd.

“People are pulling for him, so he should use the crowd to his favor,” said McEnroe. “I'd be interested to see if he does any of that because he doesn't show much on the court.  It seems like he's losing out on something that could help him maybe against these other two guys (Djokovic and Nadal).”

McEnroe will commentate for both ESPN and BBC television at Wimbledon, as well as hosting a radio phone-in show, ‘Six-Love-Six’ on BBC Radio 5 Live.

Date: 23.06.2012, Source: ATP

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Roger Federer can equal Pete Sampras's record 7 titles if it rains at SW19, says Tim Henman

According to Tim Henman, a few rain showers could help Roger Federer notch up a record-equalling seventh appearance on the honours board.

This theory revolves around the fact that Federer stands unchallenged as the master of indoor courts, as he proved last winter by romping to back-to-back titles in Paris and London.

“If the Centre Court roof comes over,” Henman says, “you will be talking about the world’s first indoor grand slam.”

As a long-time friend and admirer of Federer, Henman finds it bewildering that so many pundits and commentators are prepared to write off the greatest winning machine the game has seen. Particularly at Wimbledon, where Federer’s tally of six championships leaves him one short of Pete Sampras’s magnificent seven.

“If he wins another grand slam – and I believe he will – then I would expect him to do it at Wimbledon or the US Open,” Henman said.

“The surface in New York is actually faster, but the nature of the movement on a grass court means it is a difficult place to defend. Federer doesn’t really do much defending because his style is so aggressive.”

“We saw him lose to Novak Djokovic in Paris in very unhelpful, windy conditions, which suited Djokovic’s attritional approach. You have to play with a far greater margin for error when it’s windy."

"You can’t aim as close to the lines. Certainly on a clay court with a slightly irregular bounce you can’t take the ball so early.”

“But I’d like to see Roger play Novak under the Wimbledon roof. I think that might produce a different result, because right now, he is the best indoor player in the world.”

“I would bet that 99 per cent of the players want to be playing at Roger’s level right now,” he said. “So why are so many people writing him off?

“The challenge for Roger right now is obviously Djokovic and Rafael Nadal, but what a great challenge to have. I actually think that Roger’s best level now is higher than it was when he was winning everything in sight; it’s just that everyone else has improved too.”

“Let’s go back to last year’s US Open. He had match point against Djokovic, and Djokovic hit a one-in-a-hundred shot. If you move forward from that, in the last nine months he has won seven tournaments. He’s 30 years old, but he’s in phenomenal shape. His hunger and desire are as great as anyone’s.”

“We’re very good in focusing — certainly in this country — on what we haven’t got. With someone like Federer, goodness, let’s try and keep him around for as long as possible. He’s the best player that’s ever lived, so let’s enjoy him while he’s here.”

The question of how long Federer will go on for has diverted plenty of tennis insiders, but the truth is that no one really knows. Possibly not even Federer himself.

At some point, he will presumably find that diminishing returns kick in. But for a man who stands well clear of Andy Murray at No 3 in the world, that day must still be some way off.

“I think Roger appreciates how lucky it is and the opportunity he’s got,” Henman said, “and he wants to make the most of it. I stopped at exactly the right time.”

“I was 33 and was struggling with different aspects, especially as we had just had our third child. But the reality is that there’s plenty of time to be retired.”

“While you’re an athlete playing at the highest level you want to make the most of it.” And we who follow the game should make the most of Federer too. To paraphrase George Orwell, all players are unique, but some are more unique than others.

Date: 22.06.2012, Source: The Telegraph

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Roger Federer confirmed for Rotterdam 2013

Roger Federer: "Dear Fans I will be playing Rotterdam in 2013 and am very excited to be defending my title and playing in the 40th anniversary event. The tournament will be held February 11 to 17, 2013 in Ahoy Rotterdam in the Netherlands.The ABN AMRO World Tennis Tournament is one of the ‘special’ tournaments for me personally on the ATP World Tour. Hopefully I will become the first player with his name on the boarding for the third time."

Richard Krajicek on the participation of Roger Federer: "After his victory in February, Rogers return was on top of the wishlist of everyone involved in the ABN AMRO World Tennis Tournament. We are very proud that we have agreed on his participation which we can announce today. The sold-out sessions when Roger played, the atmosphere in Ahoy when he was practicing or signing autographs and all the wonderful reactions from the fans, made the last edition very special. For our upcoming anniversary, we wanted him to return to Rotterdam. With his participation the tournament already promises to be a great party."

Roger Federer participated in the ABN AMRO World Tennis Tournament of the year 1999, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2005, and 2012. In 2005 and 2012 he managed to win the tournament. It is striking that these were the two best attended editions. Last February Ahoy Rotterdam even welcomed a record number of 115,894 tennis fans. In 2013 the Swiss could be the first player in the forty-year history of the tournament conquering the singles title for a third time.

Date: 22.06.2012, Source: ABN AMRO Rotterdam

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Federer not dismayed by form as he seeks 7th Wimbledon crown

Fortunately Roger Federer is not obsessed with the setting of records, otherwise he might be approaching The 2012 Championships with trepidation instead of anticipation. The Swiss is one short of Pete Sampras' mark of seven Wimbledon victories, and has remained so since triumphing for the sixth time on Centre Court in 2009.

The past two years have brought the disappointment of exits at the quarter-final stage, first to Tomas Berdych and then Jo-Wilfried Tsonga. If the fact that the genius who has collected 74 career titles has not added to his all-time record of 16 Grand Slam titles for the past 28 months (since the 2010 Australian Open) bothers him, it certainly does not show.

"I don't go through days thinking, my God, I haven't won a Grand Slam in so long," he says. "I don't get pulled down by it. Actually, I think I get motivated by it. It doesn't come in phases. I'm always been hungry for success and that's a good thing."

Federer is quick to deny that he was ever arrogant enough to feel proprietorial about Wimbledon, even when he was winning five men's titles in as many years between 2003 and 2007. But he is happy to agree that Wimbledon is, for him, very much a feel-good place in the tennis calendar. "I always just feel very good here, around the grounds, on the court. Obviously, the more you win the more confidence you get."

Federer admits that he sometimes used to underestimate opponents when he was in all-conquering form on the grass of Wimbledon. "I used to think I couldn't lose on grass, then the next thing you know, that's what happans. With the success I have had a Wimbledon I always arrive here under some pressure. But also, this is where I'm able to shift up a couple of gears because grass works to my strengths."

In August Federer will celebrate his 31st birthday but he denies that his career has now moved to the dark side of the tennis summit."I feel good about myself, about my body," he insists and the opinion of his part-time coach Paul Annacone (who for so many years was in Sampras' corner) bears this out. "Roger has the enthusiasm of a 20-year-old," says Annacone. "There is no need to motivate him. He's relentless about trying to improve. At tournaments it's like he's at a cocktail party. He's just trying to enjoy every part of them."

What helped recharge the Federer batteries in recent months was the decision to take a six-week break last September after the US Open. He stormed back to win 15 successive matches and titles in Basle, the Paris Masters and the season-end Barclays ATP World Tour Finals in London. The 2012 form has been just as impressive, with victories in Rotterdam, Dubai, Indian Wells and Madrid, and he enters Wimbledon with a season's won-lost record of 39-6.

And if those victories have not included a Grand Slam, Roger Federer is content with his form and his health as he approaches what he says will be the peak of his career, the 2012 Wimbledon, followed by the Olympics at the same venue. "With the history I have at Wimbledon it's going to be a super-exciting time".

Date: 20.06.2012, Source: Wimbledon

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Roger Federer holds 5th place in Forbes 100 list

16-time Grand Slam champion stands at the fifth place in the latest list of world’s 100 richest sportspersons, which was released by the Forbes magazine on Tuesday.

30-year-old Roger Federer has been earning more than $52 million per year, where he is one of the top brand ambassadors for several companies. Swiss Ace endorses with Gillette, Jura, a Swiss-based coffee machine company including Mercedes-Benz and NetJets. In 2009 Federer has become the brand ambassador for Swiss chocolate makers Lindt, while Mercedes-Benz China was extended into a global Mercedes-Benz partnership deal in 2010.

11-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal holds 16th place with earning $33.2 million, where he was contract with Nike, Babolat, KIA Motors, Richard Mille and Bacardi. Meanwhile World number one Novak Djokovic bagged 62nd place with $20.6 million and four-time major title holder Maria Sharapova stands at 26th place with $27.9 million.

Boxing champion Floyd Mayweather topped the Forbes list with $85 million, while Fillipino pugilist Manny Pacquiao leading second spot with earnings of $62 million and Aermcian golf legend Tiger Woods with $59.4 million at third place. India Cricket captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni holds 31st place $26.5 million and Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar at No. 78 with $18.6 million for 2011-2012 seasons.

TOP 10 Richest Sportspersons Earnings: 1. Floyd Mayweather (Boxing) ($85 million) 2. Manny Pacquiao (Boxing) ($62 million) 3. Tiger Woods (Golf) ($59.4 million) 4. Lebron James (Basketball) ($53 million) 5. Roger Federer (Tennis) ($52.7 million) 6. Kobe Bryant (Basketball) ($52.3 million) 7. Phil Mickelson (Golf) ($47.8 million) 8. David Beckham (Football) ($46 million) 9. Cristiano Ronaldo (Football) ($42.5 million) 10. Peyton Manning (American Football) ($42.4 million)

The other famous sports personalities: 11. Lionel Messi (Football) ($39 million) 26. Maria Sharapova (Tennis) ($27.9 million) 31. Mahendra Singh Dhoni (Cricket) ($26.5 million) 37. Wayne Rooney (Football) ($24.3 million) 62. Novak Djokovic (Tennis) ($20.6 million) 63. Usain Bolt (Athletics) ($20.3 million) 78. Sachin Tendulkar (Cricket) ($18.6 million)

Date: 20.06.2012, Source: Live Tennis Guide

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Federer in 3 way battle for No. 1 at Wimbledon

Wimbledon is shaping as a battleground for the World No. 1 ranking, with Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer all in contention to hold top spot after The Championships.

Djokovic, who has held the No. 1 South African Airways ATP Ranking since July 4, 2011 after winning his first Wimbledon title, must reach the final to ensure that he remains ahead of his rivals. Because of his stunning start to the 2011 season, when Djokovic headed into Wimbledon with a 41-1 match record, the Serb has had a mountain of points to defend during the first half of this year. Although he defended his Australian Open and Sony Open Tennis titles, those have been Djokovic’s only triumphs of the season; in 2011 he won seven crowns during the same period.

Federer can retake No. 1 if he wins the Wimbledon title and Djokovic does not advance beyond the semi-finals. It has been more than two years (Roland Garros 2009) since Federer last held top status on the ATP World Tour. He enjoyed a 48-week run at World No. 1 the last time, taking the top ranking back from Nadal following his 2009 Wimbledon triumph. He first ascended to No. 1 on February 2004 and held the position for a record 237 consecutive weeks. All up, the Swiss has held the No. 1 ranking for 285 weeks during his career, just one week shy of Pete Sampras’ all-time record of 286 weeks.

Nadal, who ceded the No. 1 ranking to Djokovic when he lost the Wimbledon final last year, can reclaim top spot if he wins The Championships for a third time and the Serb does not go beyond the quarter-finals.

Federer has vaulted back into contention for No. 1 after a strong finish to last season and an impressive 2012 campaign. Last year Federer lost to Djokovic in the semi-finals of US Open (after holding two match points) and won his last three tournaments of the year: Basel, The ATP World Tour Masters 1000 title in Paris and the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals. In his nine tournaments this year Federer has failed to reach the semi-finals or better only once (Miami) and has won four events: ATP World Tour Masters 1000 titles in Indian Wells and Madrid, and ATP World Tour 500 titles in Rotterdam and Dubai.

The table below shows how many South African Airways ATP Rankings points each player will have after Wimbledon 2012 based on which round they reaches.

Date: 19.06.2012, Source: ATP

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Roger Federer's Wimbledon 2012 Nike Outfit

 

Date: 19.06.2012

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Haas shocks Federer to win Halle title

Tommy Haas defeated second seed Roger Federer 7-6 (7/5), 6-4 to win Gerry Weber Open, Halle on Sunday.

It was Gerry Weber Open record champion Federer who made the better start. Haas, who like his Swiss opponent had only had his serve broken once on the way to the final, lost his very first service game, but at 3-1 down, he started to find his way into the match. In the fifth game, he crowned his comeback by breaking back to make it 3-3, and from that moment on, he was the most aggressive player. Haas took more risks while the World Rankings number three committed more and more unenforced errors and had to defend the first two set points. The decision was then made in a tie break when Haas, was forced onto the back foot again, but after another rousing comeback, he converted his fourth set point.

Federer tried to raise the tempo in the second set. In the second game, the Swiss failed to take two break points and then he struggled more on his own serve than the German. The logical conclusion was that Haas broke to make it 5-4 at the end of one of the most spectacular rallies. Subsequently, the Wimbledon semi-finalist from 2009 held his nerve, served with the same consistency and benefited from one of the many unenforced errors from Federer to win his first match point. But Federer was a fair loser.

After claiming the title Haas said: "This has been one of the best weeks of my career, but I reckon I won't really appreciate what's happened until this evening.

"If someone had said to me beforehand that I was going to beat Roger Federer, probably the best player of all time, I would have thought they were mad!"

Federer was magnanimous in defeat, saying: "Tommy has performed well throughout, I'm thrilled for him. I knew that it would be a tough match. To begin with, I wasted a few chances, but it was still a great week for me. Tommy was the better player after that and he deserves this win, truly."

Federer has already enjoyed a memorable week at the German town in North Rhine-Westphalia after the main pathway up to the tennis stadium was named after him.

The 16-times grand slam champion is unlikely to be too concerned about failing to clear the final hurdle here as he would have fine-tuned his game for Wimbledon during the four matches he has played here.

Date: 17.06.2012, Source: Reuters and Gerry Weber Open

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Federer storms into 7th Halle final

Roger Federer advanced to the Gerry Weber Open final for the seventh time in Halle as he dismissed Mikhail Youzhny 6-1, 6-4 in one hour. The Basel native fired eight aces and converted four of his eight break points to seal his 13th win in 13 meetings with Youzhny.

"It was a good match for me," said Federer. "An early start, but I think I started well. Mikhail started a bit slow, but I think I took advantage of it and after that I was able to get on a roll. I’m obviously excited to be a finalist here again."

The Swiss is bidding to win the title at this ATP World Tour 250 grass-court tournament for the sixth time after victories in 2003-2006 and 2008. He has a 39-4 event record, with his only final defeat coming in 2010 against Lleyton Hewitt.

"It’s always special winning a title not far away from home," said Federer. "I remember my parents came up to watch me play. It’s a long way. I think I rode back with them to Switzerland and then I would go to Wimbledon. I always played very well here in the final actually. I never had a bad final. I hope it can be again something similar tomorrow."

In his 105th final, where he is chasing his 75th tour-level title, Federer will face 2009 winner Tommy Haas. The 34 year old reached his 22nd ATP World Tour final as he battled past defending champion Philipp Kohlschreiber 7-6(5), 7-5 in an all-German contest.

"It’s going to be a German in the finals. It’s happened before. It’s always tricky playing Germans here in the final, but I’m looking forward to that match," said Federer.

"Tommy and I share many years together on the tour and also our families are close," said Federer. "I’m happy for him that he made it so far and beat such top players. I hoped that he’d find his way into the tournament and would have a good run. He’s very dangerous on grass. So, it won’t be an easy final for me."

Haas and Federer’s rivalry spans 12 years, with the first meeting taking place in 2000 at the Sydney Olympics and resulting in a straight-sets win for Haas. Since then, the German has lost 10 of their past 11 meetings.

"To be in another final on German soil is fantastic for me," declared Haas. "It's something I really hoped for to happen one more time. I'm going for my 13th title tomorrow, which is one huge goal that I still have, against possibly the greatest player of all time. It's an honour in many ways, but at the same time, once the ball is in play, I really don't care who's on the other side. You just try to win those big points and try to win the match."

Date:16.06.2012, Source: ATP

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Federer edges Milos Raonic to reach Halle semis

Roger Federer went down to the wire with fifth seed Milos Raonic at the Gerry Weber Open on Friday, edging the Canadian 6-7(4), 6-4, 7-6(3) to reach the Halle semi-finals.

Though Raonic rifled 25 aces, Federer was more effective on serve, winning 83 per cent of his second serve points, to Raonic’s 53 per cent success rate. Federer prevailed in one hour and 59 minutes to defeat the World No. 21 in a three-set contest for the third time this season.

Raonic was unable to break Federer's serve, and therein lies the key to future success against the world's No. 3 player. Raonic's return of his serve and ability to stay in points longer is much improved, but it must improve yet more. Raonic made 29 unforced errors compared to 12 for Federer.

"I have always lost the first set against him and, like in Madrid, won the third set on a tie-break. Maybe it was this on my mind, to have succeeded once in Madrid, that was decisive today also. You have got to pay Milos a huge compliment. If he carries on like this, then he is going to serve over 300 km/h,” said Federer after a tight match which nevertheless left him with a smile on his face.

Federer, looking to win his sixth title at the ATP World Tour 250 grass-court event in Halle, has advanced to the semi-final stage at nine of the 10 tournaments he’s played this year.

For a place in the final, Federer will face Mikhail Youzhny, who topped Radek Stepanek 6-4, 4-6, 6-4.

Date: 15.06.2012, Source: ATP and Fox News

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Federer beats Mayer to begin Halle title bid

Five-time Gerry Weber Open champion Roger Federer opened his title campaign on Thursday, defeating Florian Mayer 6-4, 7-5 to begin his grass-court season in Halle.

The second-seeded Federer hit 11 aces, won 76 per cent of his service points and converted two of his six break point chances to remain undefeated in four matches against Mayer.

“It was a very good game at a high level,” said Federer.

Federer was playing his first match since falling to Novak Djokovic in the Roland Garros semi-finals. Federer has won four titles this season, in Rotterdam (d. del Potro), Dubai (d. Murray), Indian Wells (d. Isner) and Madrid (d. Berdych).

The 30-year-old Swiss, who signed a lifetime contract with the ATP World Tour 250 grass-court tournament in Halle, has a 37-4 event record, and is looking to collect his first trophy at the tournament since triumphing in 2008 over Philipp Kohlschreiber.

In the quarter-finals, Federer will clash with big-serving Milos Raonic. Federer has won both of their meetings this season in three sets, edging the Canadian in Indian Wells and Madrid.

Date: 14.06.2012, Source: ATP

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Federer seeking golden seal in London Olympics

With almost impeccable Swiss timing, Roger Federer has a last chance to fill the remaining spot in his bulging trophy cabinet on the court that witnessed the blooming of a tennis genius.

His beloved Wimbledon hosts the Olympic tennis tournament in a few weeks and at 30, and with a record 16 grand slam titles to his name, Federer knows time is running short.

Only a fool would discount him from this year's grasscourt grand slam, a title he has won six times, but his best chance of glory on the lawns of south-west London might come a few weeks later at the Olympics.

From the moment he surprisingly lost to James Blake in the quarter-finals of the Beijing singles four years ago, Federer has been eyeing his shot at gold in London on August 5.

Not that it has become an obsession.

With a wife Mirka, whom he met while competing at the 2000 Sydney Olympics, two daughters, millions in the bank and an Olympic gold in doubles with friend Stan Wawrinka, Federer appears relaxed about his chances.

His on-court celebrations with Wawrinka in China, when both players rolled around hugging on the court, still bring a smile to his lips.

"I do feel less pressure...because I have won the Olympic gold in doubles already in Beijing with Stan, and that was an amazing feeling and made me very proud to do that for Switzerland," said Federer who missed out on bronze at the Sydney Games 2000 and was knocked out in the second round by a then unknown Tomas Berdych in Athens 2004.

"I'm going to be super excited for the fourth time, but it is my fourth time so I think I'll be a bit more relaxed going into this Olympics," he said recently.

"But I don't feel like if I don't win this one, you know, it's a missed opportunity or whatever it is. I tried as hard as I could many times, particularly the last two, and I had a legitimate chance at winning the Olympic gold."

"It's going to be a great tournament. I want to enjoy it, not just crumble under pressure and just talk about that if I don't win."

"That's not how I see it. Any medal would be a good one, but obviously in my situation, I've got to aim for gold."

It could become one of the iconic images of the London Games if Federer crown his career with another gold medal this year.

Federer clearly believes Olympic recognition is good for tennis.

"Wimbledon actually helped the London bid get the Olympics, I think it was big, even though Wimbledon doesn't really need to be part of the Olympics, to be quite honest," he said.

"It's big for I think the game of tennis, looking ahead to the future Olympics, and for the players of this generation. I couldn't be more excited."

The format may well help Federer too.

Best of five sets against the top guns these days has become a tall order, even for a player whose level has remained incredibly high.

At the Olympics, a best-of-three-sets format is used until the final. Matches could be decided by a moment of magic, which Federer still has in abundance.

Federer has twice carried the Swiss flag at the opening ceremony and it would be a surprise if that were not to happen again. After all, he is Switzerland's greatest sportsman and, each summer in London, he has become almost royalty.

Date: 14.06.2012, Source: Reuters

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Roger-Federer-Allee officially inaugurated

Federer: "Now I will always be in Halle." Tournament director Ralf Weber: "He was and is a great ambassador for the tournament." Mayor Anne Rodenbrock-Wesselmann speaks of a “proud moment“ for the city.

“It is a great honour for me that a street is named after me,” said the 30-year-old Swiss. “In Switzerland and Austria I have a stamp. The street is something you can only hope for and it’s kind of surreal when it happens. I’m overjoyed to be forever linked to a tournament like here in Halle, not only through the victories but also beyond.  That really makes me happy for the fans, for the tournament and for myself it is a great honour. Therefore, I am happy to come back in the next years and always be welcome. That is very pleasant.”

As a tennis player, he had a contract with the Gerry Weber until the end of his career – a "life time contract". But as of 11 June 2012, it's clear that Roger Federer will remain part of the city of Halle Westfalen and their great ATP tournament for well past his active playing days. At exactly 4:05 p.m. on first day of the main field at the 20th edition of the tournament, Roger-Federer-Allee was inaugurated near the event arena and the Sportpark Hotel. "Now I will practically always be here" said the visually emotional world tennis star, who took part in the ceremony along wtih tournament director Ralf Weber and Halle mayor Anne Rodenbrock-Wesselmann. The 16-time Grand Slam winner admitted it's an "unbelievablely big honor that now a street in Germany is named after me", Federer already has his likeness printed on stamps in his homeland Switzerland as well as Austria. "The Germans were really a step ahead of the Swiss."

Tournament director Ralf Weber held a speech in front of dozens of media representatives and a few hundred spectators, calling Federer a "great ambassador for the tournament" and a "fan favourite who very quickly captured the hearts of the fans." Weber continued: "The people here simply love Roger, his natural manner and his confident demeanour. We are happy that we could name this street after him." Mayor Anne Rodenbrock-Wesselmann emphasized that the city is proud "that we now have such a famous street by us. Everyone is proud of this."

The transportation committee of the city of Halle on 3 May gave the unanimous green light for the request from the Gerry Weber Management & Event OHG to re-name the Stichstraße road into Roger-Federer-Allee. Tournament spokesman Frank Hofen reasoned the move with the fact that Federer changed the plans of other players after his titles in 2003 in Halle and Wimbledon. Thanks to Federer, Halle was able to establish itself more and more as a successful and valuable preparation tournament for the Grand Slam competiiton.

The only address changes will be within the GERRY WEBER OPEN family. Greenkeeper Phil Thorne's house will now have the address Roger-Federer-Allee 1 while the event centre is at Roger-Federer-Allee 2. The GERRY WEBER STADIUM is located at Roger-Federer-Allee 4 and the hotel at Roger-Federer-Allee 6.

Date: 11.06.2012, Source: Gerry Weber Open

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Gerry Weber Open 2012 draw

After the end of the clay season it is finally time for the green surface! Especially with the Olympics coming up - on the holy lawn in Wimbledon - this year's grass season is certainly a highlight in Roger's career. He will compete in the Gerry Weber Open in Halle this week.

After a first round bye, Roger either plays Germany's Florian Meyer (ATP 35) or America's Tim Smyczek (ATP 206). In the quarter-finals, our champ could then meet Canada's Milos Raonic (ATP 22). A possible semi-final against Alexander Dolgopolow (ATP 19) could then be the last step before a final clash with Rafael Nadal.

Date: 11.06.2012, Source: RF Official

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Roger Federer has arrived in Halle

World tennis star Roger Federer is back in Halle, Germany for Gerry Weber Open. On Sunday afternoon, record breaking Grand Slam winner and a five time winner at Halle hit a jubilee edition of the Gerry Weber Open.

"We are very proud that Roger is with us again," said tournament director Ralf Weber. Roger Federer, who has received a bouquet of flowers on arrival, said: "I am glad that I can play again at the Gerry Weber Open. When I arrived, we had wonderful weather with sunshine. I hope the good weather persists in the coming days."


Date: 10.06.2012, Source: Gerry Weber Open

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Federer ready for grass season after French Open loss

Sweep away the clay, bring on the grass summed up Roger Federer's emotions after his French Open defeat to Novak Djokovic on Friday. The Swiss star lost in straight sets 6-4, 7-5, 6-3 to the top seed from Serbia in a semi-final encounter that left him on a record 16 Grand Slam titles, the last coming over two years ago at the 2010 Australian Open.

It was a poor performance from Federer, by his own superlative standards, and it brought down the curtain on a claycourt season that, for him, was a damp squib after a promising few months.

"That's how it goes sometimes. I've got to change things around now for grass anyway," he said.

"I'm looking forward to that. It's been a difficult clay court season. I wasn't in the best shape physically, to be quite honest. Still, it gives me a little bit of a lift, coming into the grass court season now."

The grass court season for Federer traditionally means Wimbledon and what he has always maintained is the title that means more to him than any other.

This year though there are two Wimbledon titles at stake, the other being the Olympic title, the one major honour. He did win doubles gold for Switzerland with Stanislas Wawrinka at Beijing four years ago.

Federer, who will turn 31 in August, had his chances against Djokovic, especially in the second set when he jumped out into a 3-0 lead.

But in windy, variable conditions, he never really settled into his game, while Djokovic, who needed two five-setters in the two previous rounds, was able to establish more consistency in his game.

"I was struggling to sort of keep the ball in play long enough, even though I wasn't hitting the ball poorly," he said. "It's been a tough week for me. Maybe in these conditions today didn't help me, help the cause, let's put it that way."

"I did have enough chances, so it's no excuse there. I tried, and it just didn't work out today."

Date: 09.06.2012, Source: AFP

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Federer lost to Djokovic in the semis

Roger Federer fell to Novak Djokovic 6-4, 7-5, 6-3 in a Roland Garros semi-final re-match on Friday. Having come back from two sets down to rally past Juan Martin del Potro in the quarter-finals, Federer believed he was in-form heading into the final four showdown with Djokovic.

Once the clouds cleared over south-west Paris, the second semi-final began with Federer in confident mood. Moving flawlessly, the Swiss gave Djokovic little time to recover by hitting his forehands early on the rise. The tactic reaped dividends with Djokovic falling to 15/40 at 2-2. Federer converted his second opportunity with a powerful forehand winner, but honours were soon even as Djokovic immediately broke back, to 30, for 3-3. Djokovic had weathered the storm, but Federer continued to flirt with the lines and over-pressed. The third seed fell to 15/40 at 4-5, two set points for Djokovic. The Serbian sealed the 34-minute set when Federer overcooked a forehand long. Djokovic hit 10 winners and committed just three unforced errors.

Federer continued to be aggressive, winning a 36-shot rally when Djokovic led 40/30 in the first game of the second set. The Swiss went onto convert a break point opportunity by hitting a smash winner. He soon took a 3-0 lead, to leave Djokovic breathing a little heavier, after a second service break to 30. But the World No. 1 responded, recovering to 2-3, to keep the pressure on. Federer could have made it 5-2, but failed to convert three break point chances. Would it cost him? It did. Federer initially became tentative and his forehand unforced error count increased. The pair exchanged service breaks, before Federer served for the set at 5-4. Djokovic held his nerve and won three straight games, converting his second set point chance when Federer ballooned a forehand long. Federer won 14 of his 35 service points in the 53-minute set, while Djokovic hit 11 winners and converted four of his five break point opportunities.

Federer paid the price for a spate of missed first serves in the sixth game. He recovered from 15/40, but Djokovic converted his third break point chance as Federer buried a forehand in the net. The 30-year-old Federer made Djokovic serve it out and the Serb opens up a 40/15 lead in the ninth game with a remarkable backhand passing shot. The Belgrade native missed his first match point with a forehand long, but converted his second opportunity with an unreturned serve. He claimed victory after two hours and five minutes, having hit 27 winners and capitalised on 46 unforced errors from Federer’s racquet.

Federer was looking to reach the Roland Garros final for the sixth time. He completed the career Grand Slam with victory in 2009 (d. Soderling) and lost out to Nadal in the finals in 2006-2008 and 2011. The Swiss has won a record 16 Grand Slam championships, but has not triumphed at a major since the 2010 Australian Open (d. Murray).

"I thought he played well under tough conditions," assessed Federer. "I wasn't able to sustain maybe a solid enough game today. I did have enough chances, so it's no excuse there. I tried, and it just didn't work out today."

"Semi-finals is, at the end of the day, a very good result for any tennis player. For me, too. I wish I could have done a bit better today, especially with the wasted opportunities. But that's how it goes sometimes. I've got to go change things around now for grass anyway. I'm looking forward to that. It's been a difficult clay court season."

“Overall, I did feel my very best coming into the semis today,” said Federer. “I was where I wanted to be, but ran into an opponent who was just better today. Still, it gives me a little bit of a lift coming into the grass-court season now.”

Evaluating how the match went down, Federer was most disappointed about dropping the second set.

“I was actually feeling particularly well in the second set, so that one obviously hurts the most to lose. And the first set, too,” Federer said. “But in the third, I wasn't able to put a good game together anymore. And the return in particular, obviously with a two sets to love lead against Novak it's not the same match anymore."

“I would have liked to do better here at Roland Garros. I'm supported so much, and I won in 2009, also. So I wanted to re-experience this. Unfortunately, it was not possible at all during these two weeks.”

Date: 08.06.2012, Source: ATP

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Federer reveals his plan of battle against Djokovic

Paul Annocane, Severin Luthi and John McEnroe says Novak Djokovic will be on attack by Roger Federer in todays Roland Garros 2012 semi final match.

After the so far conflicting appearances at Roland Garros Novak Djokovic awaits today with the big test for Roger Federer. 2011 Roger Federer ended Djokovic's run of 41 wins in the Paris semi-final. 14:11, the balance in favor of Federer, and Federer is 3-2 on clay.

Federer knows that he must take Djoker together with his coach Paul Annacone and Severin Luthi and he has designed the game plan.

"I had a hard time here, did not play my best tennis. It is physical. I want it soon caught up in a couple of long rallies, "he says. "In Rome he was able to dominate me, his backhand was playing along the line, was very offensive returned well. I must serve better and play offensively. I must bring him to doubt. If he runs once, it is difficult to stop", says Roger.

Federer's team noticed that Djokovic has stood with their backs to the wall. Severin Luthi: "Five Movements against Seppi and five against Tsonga - there considering you already know if he reached his level. He does not have as much confidence as 2011, I have a very good feeling."

Paul Annacone says that Federer had to find that extra gear. "In the important moments he can almost always improve. Roger first had to find the style with which he feels comfortable. 2009, it was like now. We know what happened then."

John McEnroe's point: "Roger has the crowd behind him. And it is important that he exploits it for themselves. He must find a way to make it click between him and the stadium does."

Date: 08.06.2012, Source: Blick

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Federer fight back stuns Del Potro

2009 champion Roger Federer fought back from two sets to love down for the seventh time in his career with a 3-6, 6-7(4), 6-2, 6-0, 6-3 quarter-final win over ninth seed Juan Martin del Potro of Argentina at Roland Garros.

Federer reached his 31st Grand Slam championship semi-final, to equal Jimmy Connors' record for the most major semi-final appearances, with victory in three hours and 14 minutes. He next will attempt to repeat his 2011 Roland Garros semi-final win over top seed Novak Djokovic. The Serb also rallied from behind to beat Frenchman Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in five sets.

"I thought it was very good conditions for him," said Federer. "I knew it was going to be tough anyway. I have been struggling to find my rhythm. I did feel it in the first set, even though he was up two sets. I was finding a way back and starting to feel better. I was just trying to figure out how to play a guy who returns from so far back on a slow court. Do you try to serve through him? Which I tried; it didn't work. Or do I try and move it around a bit? And that worked a bit better, but it was really in the mix up that I found success."

"The second set was a tough set for me to lose, but he played a really good breaker and got the better of me. But I was happy that the first two sets took some time, because I did favour myself once the match got longer. I'm very happy with the way I fought and started in the third set, fourth set, and even in the fifth set, where, obviously, it was the toughest, because that was his last chance and his resistance maybe was the strongest there."

Del Potro broke serve four times in the first two sets, when he lost just eight points on his first serve. But a knee injury that had bothered del Potro during the tournament flared up and required treatment. When del Potro's first serve percentage began to drop, Federer seized control of the match. He lost just eight points in the 23-minute fourth set and swept through the decider for his 237th match win at a major championship.

It was Federer's third comeback from two sets to love down at Roland Garros. He also did so against Sargis Sargsian in 2001 and Tommy Haas in 2009, when he went on to beat del Potro in five sets en route to completing a career Grand Slam with his first - and, to date, only - Roland Garros title. The 30-year-old Swiss also improved to 19-16 in matches decided in a fifth set. Federer now leads del Potro 8-2 in their FedEx ATP Head2Head series.

Del Potro, who reached the 2009 semi-finals, had his serve broken eight times. He committed 43 unforced errors - as many as Federer - but won just 35 per cent of his return points.

"I played a great match, even in the third and fourth sets," said del Potro. "He started to play much better than in the beginning of the match.

"I didn't serve well, and this is why I lost the intensity in my game. I had opportunities. I missed them. When he had opportunities he won, and that made the difference. I didn't have any chance to win until the first game in the fifth set when I had one break point opportunity."

"It was a great tournament for me. I'm very happy I made it to this level. When I win sets, when I win games against the big players, against those who have a better ranking than my own, there's always something to learn. There are positives and negatives, and I have to work on the negative aspects."

Date: 05.06.2012, Source: ATP

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Federer's path of least resistance

For the 32nd straight major, Roger Federer is through to the quarterfinals. And while he's made it look tough at times, this has been his easiest path ever to the final eight of a Grand Slam tournament.

So far at Roland Garros, Federer has beaten No. 78 Tobias Kamke, No. 92 Adrian Ungur and No. 89 Nicolas Mahut. In Sunday's fourth round he knocked off No. 109 David Goffin in four sets.

Never before has the 16-time major champ gotten through to the quarterfinals of a major without facing a player ranked 62nd or better.

Federer encountered his toughest test en route to his second major quarterfinal, at Wimbledon in 2001. There he beat No. 6 Pete Sampras, in their only meeting. Since then Federer has earned easier routes, thanks to a ranking of fifth or better for all of his subsequent quarterfinal appearances.

Federer's path at this year's French Open looked trickier before potential early-round opponents David Nalbandian, Andy Roddick, Radek Stepanek and Feliciano Lopez all lost in the first round. Despite the fortunate draw, Federer has lost three sets and 39.6% of the games he's played.

It gets much more difficult from here. In the quarterfinals Federer gets No. 9 Juan Martin del Potro. If he wins that match, he could have to beat the world's top two players, Novak Djokovic and six-time French Open champion Rafael Nadal, to win the title.

Date: 04.06.2012, Source: The Wall Street Journal

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Federer beats fan Goffin to reach quarterfinals

Roger Federer surrendered one set against Belgian fan and newcomer David Goffin before beating the lucky loser 5-7 7-5 6-2 6-4 to reach the quarter-finals of the French Open at a record 32nd consecutive major tournament on Sunday.

Federer, seeking a record 17th grand-slam title, will play either Argentine Juan Martin del Potro, the ninth seed, or number seven Tomas Berdych of Czech Republic in the last eight.

The Swiss, who won the Roland Garros title in 2009, saved two breakpoints before surrendering a third on a forehand error to lose the first set.

The 21-year-old Goffin, the first lucky loser to reach the last 16 of a grand slam since compatriot Dick Norman at Wimbledon in 1995, kept up the pressure but ultimately was no match for the wily Federer.

Goffin, who plastered his bedroom walls with posters of his idol Federer when he was a teenager, won over the fans on the windy Suzanne Lenglen Court with his fighting spirit and prowess at the net.

At a break down in the fourth set, and presumably feeling defeat's warm breath on his neck, Goffin won a point on Federer's serve with a particularly athletic volley.

The Belgian put his arm in the air, then graciously bowed to three sides of the court as the crowd cheered.

Federer, 30, held serve and served out for the match at the next opportunity, showing his younger rival how it was done with an ace and a spectacular forehand down the line on the final two points.

"David has played an extraordinary tournament," the Swiss said in an interview on court. "I congratulate him from the bottom of my heart."

Goffin beamed. "It is really a dream to play against Roger and I hope to have many more matches like this," he said.

The two men embraced. The crowd cheered. Everyone went home happy.

Date: 03.06.2012, Source: Reuters

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'Idol' Federer braced for poster boy Goffin

When Roger Federer was winning his first Wimbledon in 2003, David Goffin was a starstruck child, hanging posters of the great Swiss on the wall of his bedroom in the Belgian city of Liege.

Now, nine years on, the 21-year-old gets the opportunity to play against his idol with a French Open quarter-final place at stake.

However, just one week ago, such a scenario had looked impossible.

Goffin, the world 109, had lost in the qualifying tournament at Roland Garros and was ready to pack his bags for home.

But when top French player Gael Monfils pulled out of the event with a knee injury, he was handed a lifeline into the main draw as a lucky loser -- an alternate on standby -- and has not looked back.

Goffin has become the first lucky loser to reach the last 16 of a Grand Slam since compatriot Dick Norman at Wimbledon in 1995 and the first at Roland Garros since 1978.

"I haven't realized what has happened. Not yet. Maybe next week," said baby-faced Goffin, making his Grand Slam debut.

"Now I'm playing against Roger, and I can't believe it. When I was young I had a lot of pictures of him in my bedroom. I will give it my best on Sunday."

Thanks to his efforts this week, Goffin's Grand Slam record now stands at 3-0.

Federer, nine years his senior, has 16 Grand Slam titles in his total haul of 74 career trophies, a 235-35 match record at the majors as well as more than $70 million in prize money.

"I've been watching Roger playing on TV for so many years. He has always been my favourite. He has perfect tennis, perfect technique, and I like the man," added Goffin. From a human standpoint, he is a great person, whether on the court or outside the court. So I expect a very difficult match on Sunday. I don't know exactly how I should prepare for this match, but I'll try and have fun."

Goffin, whose best performance on the main tour so far was a quarter-final appearance in Mumbai in January, has looked comfortable so far at Roland Garros, defeating experienced Radek Stepanek and Arnaud Clement in the first two rounds.

A straight sets win against Poland's Lukasz Kubot paved the way for his dream Sunday date with Federer.

When Federer was told of how Goffin regarded him as an idol growing up, the world number three admitted it was a position he was getting accustomed to.

"Not the first time it happens. It's strange, weird. It's everything you can imagine. I'm happy to hear it, though," said Federer, the 2009 champion in Paris. "So it's a big match for him, and for me, too. It's gonna be an unusual match for me, knowing that now."

Federer admitted he knows little of his opponent, but had seen glimpses of what he may face on Sunday after he watched Goffin beat Clement.

"I've seen him around, but it's a nice game, he's a smooth ball striker and talented, obviously. Otherwise he wouldn't be coming that far in this tournament."

Date: 02.06.2012, Source: AFP

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Federer no longer involved with IMG

Roger Federer is no longer represented by International Management Group (IMG) after the 16-times grand-slam champion's agent Tony Godsick left the company, IMG said on Friday.

"We confirm that Tony Godsick has left the company. Tony is a great guy and we thank him for his 19 years of service. We wish him continued success in the future," said an IMG spokesman.

"Our contract with Roger Federer has expired and we no longer represent him. Roger is an icon in the world of sports."

"He is a great guy, a gentleman and an incredible champion. We are honored to have represented him and proud of the work we did for him for many years. We hope to do business with him again in the future."

Federer and Godsick's departure from IMG follows last year's decision by former golf number one Tiger Woods and his agent Mark Steinberg to sever ties with the sports management company.

Date: 02.06.2012, Source: Reuters

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Roger Federer sees off Mahut

Roger Federer overcame tenacious Frenchman Nicolas Mahut 6-3, 4-6, 6-2, 7-5 to move into the Round of 16 on Friday at Roland Garros.

"I thought he did well. Struggled a little bit, but overall obviously I'm happy I came through," said the 30-year-old Swiss.

Federer dropped a set to Mahut for the first time in four meetings, as the Frenchman capitalised on his first break point opportunity to clinch the second set. He once again came under pressure in the fourth, with Mahut recovering a break of serve in the eighth game, but Federer broke again for a 6-5 lead before serving out the match.

The 2009 champion advances to the Roland Garros fourth round for the 10th time in 14 appearances. He notched his 235th match win in Grand Slam action, two days after eclipsing Jimmy Connors' Open Era mark.

Federer will next play 21-year-old Belgian David Goffin, who defeated Poland’s Lukasz Kubot 7-6(4), 7-5, 6-1 to become just the seventh lucky loser - and first since countryman Dick Norman in 1995 at Wimbledon - to reach the Round of 16 at a major.

"Now I'm playing against Roger, and I can't believe it," said Goffin. "When I was young I had a lot of picture in my bedroom of him. I will prepare this match like every match. We will see. I will give all my best in two days."

Goffin had been elevated into the main draw when Frenchman Gael Monfils withdrew with a knee injury, and impressed on his Grand Slam debut with five-sets wins over Radek Stepanek and Arnaud Clement in the first two rounds - also his first two tour-level wins on clay.

Federer had a chance to see Goffin's game, after watching him play Clement in the French veteran's last match at Roland Garros. "It's a nice game, smooth ball striker and talented, obviously," he said. "Otherwise he wouldn't be coming that far in this tournament. Today he had a convincing tournament, and that's exactly what he needed coming into the next round."

Date: 01.06.2012, Source: ATP

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