
Roger Federer (zimbio.com)
World No.1 Roger Federer is taking nothing for granted ahead of his quarter-final showdown with South Korea’s Hyeon Chung at Indian Wells.
The top seed scored an historic 60th win in the tournament on Wednesday by defeating France’s Jeremy Chardy 7-5, 6-4. Despite the seemingly close scoreline, Federer was superior behind his serve. Winning 44 out of 49 service points. In both sets the Swiss managed to break his rival during the business end.
Winning all 15 of his matches played so far this season, Federer is one victory from equalling his best-ever start the year. In 2006 he went 16-0 before suffering a loss.
“It’s been great… But, look, it’s a totally different year, many years after,” Federer reflected. “Felt like I found my range, my rhythm early in the year… So many years I felt good actually in Australia already. I don’t know if it’s Australia per se or taking the benefits from the hard work I put in into the new season.
“Then also Rotterdam was great. I was very happy that I was able to win the tournament there, not just get to the semis and get World No. 1. So that was nice.
“And here now I’m relieved that I was able to win three matches already. Because in a big, tough draw like here at Indian Wells, you’re never quite sure what to expect. So I’m just happy I’m on a good run.”
In the last eight Federer will take on 21-year-old Chung, who has also enjoyed a successful start to the year. Within three months, he has managed to become the highest ranked South Korean of all-time at 26th. At the Australian Open he reached the semifinals before retiring injured against Federer. Despite the setback, he managed to recover and return to the tour quickly, which surprised his 36-year-old opponent.
“I was honestly quite surprised how quickly he came back. Because that thing looked nasty and it takes some time to heal.” Said Federer.
“So I hope he’s okay now. He didn’t come back too early. But he seems fine and he played a great match today. So, yeah, I’m excited to play against him tomorrow.”
During his young career, Chung has been noted for the similarities in his play to that of Novak Djokovic. Moments after defeating the Serbian earlier this year, the South Korean said the former world No.1 was his idol and somebody he tries to emulate. Something that has been met with support from Federer.
“I see where the similarities come from with Novak and it’s not a bad one to have, to be honest, because Novak has maybe the best footwork on hard courts we have ever seen.” He said about Chung’s style.
Despite their one-sided meeting in January, the top seed is expecting a challenge in the next round.
“It’s highly explosive, it’s highly impressive what he does, and I think he’s going to be a great player. How good will still remain to be seen. I have a lot of respect for him as a player, and I think he’s going to be very successful.” He said about the Next Gen star.
The quarter-final meeting between the two is a must-win match for Federer. If he loses, he will also drop his No.1 ranking to Rafael Nadal.