As the 2018 season approaches its climax, world No.3 Roger Federer believes he still has time to extend his record trophy tally in grand slams.
The 37-year-old Swiss player is the first and so far only male player to have won a major singles title more than 20 times throughout his career. His most recent triumph occurred at the Australian Open in January when he defeated Marin Cilic in the final. Since then, Federer has gone on to win titles in Rotterdam and Stuttgart. Bringing his trophy tally on the ATP Tour to a total of 98. The second most ATP titles in the Open Era after Jimmy Connors (109).
“If I am still on tour, it is because I believe I can still win tournaments, still beat the best and I’m showing that,” Federer said during a interview with Chinese network CGTN. “I think Australian Open, Wimbledon and US Open definitely will give me an opportunity to maybe chase my 21st slam.”
Since Federer’s triumph in Melbourne, he failed to reach the last four at another major. Making it the first time he hasn’t reached at least two grand slam semi-finals within the same season since 2013. After skipping Roland Garros, he reached the quarter-finals at Wimbledon followed by the fourth round at the US Open.
“I’m also ok if it doesn’t happen. Although, don’t get me wrong, the last few years have been an absolute dream run for me winning three.” The 37-year-old said about the prospect of increasing his grand slam title collection.
“I’m on 98 titles now, I would love to get to 100. It is something I’ve said publicly already but if it doesn’t happen, it doesn’t happen.
“But the feeling is there that I could do it. As long as I enjoy myself, my family is fine and my wife is enjoying herself still on tour, I’ll keep playing.”
Federer is the oldest player currently ranked inside the world’s top 100 and is one of only two aged 37. The other being Spain’s Feliciano Lopez. To put this into perspective the youngest, 18-year-old Denis Shapovalov, wasn’t born when Federer won his first ATP match at the 1998 Toulouse Open.
Despite being a veteran of the tour, Federer is relishing the rise of the next generation. A group of players aged under 21 that is headlined by world No.5 Alexander Zverev.
“Average retirement age in tennis is 32-33, I guess. I am 37. I understand if they call me old. In life, I am still young.” Federer admits.
“I appreciate that the young generation is knocking at the door and it’s really excited to play against them.
“For me, you go through transitions. This one is a really enjoyable one because there are still some guys of my age group still on the tour. I think playing against different generations help me stay motivated on the tour.”
Federer will return to action next week at the Swiss Indoors in Basel. He will be bidding to win the tournament for a record ninth time.
