Roger Federer’s decision to play no clay court tournaments leading up to next month’s French Open has failed to lessen his high expectations for the event.
Shortly after winning his third title of the season at the Miami Masters, Federer confirmed his intention to take a rest from the tour. The decision follows an injury-stricken 2016, where the Swiss player was forced to end his season early due to a knee problem.
Due to the lack of play on the surface this season, speculation has mounted that the 35-year-old may also skip the French Open to concentrate on the upcoming grass-court season. This speculation has been dismissed by Federer, who believes his break is intensifying his desire to succeed in Roland Garros.
“I entered into the French (Open) and the plan is to play the French.” Federer told The Tennis Channel. “I just feel like I need to be really hungry and excited to make the switch to the clay and I am eager to achieve something over there. Not just show up and make people happy.”
In an event dominated by Rafael Nadal in recent years, Federer’s sole French Open triumph occurred in 2009. Since then he has only managed to reach the final once in 2011. Nevertheless, the former world No.1 is known for defying the odds. At the start of the year he defeated four top-10 players to win the Australian Open in what was his first competitive tournament in six months.
“I could get on a roll and then you never know.” Federer said about his title chances.
The route to grand slam title No.19 will be a tough one. Standing in his way is Rafael Nadal, a player who won last week’s Monte Carlo Masters. Then there is Novak Djokovic and world No.1 Andy Murray, both of whom are seeking a resurgence on the clay. Weighing up the competition, Federer has concluded that Nadal and Djokovic will be his biggest threats.
“Rafa is the favourite.” He stated. “I think he’s so good on the clay, he showed it again with a tenth Monte Carlo title. I think with Novak winning there last year, I think they are going to be the one-two favourites.”
Federer shines in Seattle
Federer’s French Open comments coincided with his ‘Match for Africa 4’ exhibition on Saturday. The charity event was held in Seattle, America for the first time and raises money for Federer’s foundation.
The doubles competition saw Federer team up with Microsoft founder Bill Gates. The pairing faced John Isner and Pearl Jam guitarist Mike McCready. During the light-hearted match, team Federer triumphed 6-4.
“It’s been a wonderful experience and it’s been an absolute pleasure playing with these wonderful people. I hope we can do it again one day.” Federer said following the win.
Federer maintained his winning momentum in the singles match after, when he defeated Isner 6-4, 7-6(7). The charity night raised over $2 million for the Federer Foundation, which supports children’s education across Africa.
“I feel really privileged to be back on a tennis court. Last year was extremely difficult after surgery, the knee never really healing and back pain.” The Swiss player said at the end of the exhibition night.
The Federer foundation aims to provide education to a million children in Africa by the end of 2018. So far they have already helped over 600,000 children.
