Roger Federer is hoping that he can emulate what has been two ‘crazy good’ seasons in the new year at the age of 37.
The world No.3 is set to kick-off his season once again at the Hopman Cup in Perth. A mixed team competition that he has previously won in 2001 and 2018. Federer will be hoping for a strong run at the event in the build up to his title defence at the Australian Open where he is bidding to win the tournament for a third consecutive year.
“I hope that again it will be the start of a great season for me, because the last two seasons have been crazy good for me,” Federer said on Thursday.
“I would never have imagined that kind of return. I’m just very happy things are going so well.
“The Hopman Cup is a good place for me to start the season with, and I’m hopeful that’s going to be the same again this year.”
Since returning back to the tour at the start of 2017 following a six-month injury absence, the Swiss veteran has won 11 titles on the ATP tour, including four this year. Bringing his overall tally to 99 titles, which is the second highest of all time after Jimmy Connors (109). He has also spent eight weeks at the top of the world rankings during 2018.
Despite the success, Federer is keen to play down his chances in 2019. He faces stiff opposition from Novak Djokovic, who has enjoyed a stellar past six months. Meanwhile, Alexander Zverev is hoping his triumph at the ATP Finals in November will help elevate him to success in the majors.
“I think with my age people know that if I did something extraordinary … that would be amazing,” Federer said.
“And if that didn’t happen, maybe it’s logical you can’t produce that tennis every year.
“You also maybe need a bit of luck, and the draw to fall your way. A lot of things need to happen to win any slam, for also the top four guys.”
A trip to the moon….well sort of
Prior to his Hopman Cup campaign, Federer spent Thursday visiting the Pinnacles in West Australia. A group of limestone formations that are located within the Nambung National Park. He was flown to the area, which he described as something like the moon, moments after arriving at Perth Airport. During his time there, Federer visited a lobster shack and sampled some local seafood.
“I’m a big fan of road trips, not many people know that,” he told reporters.
“One of my big dreams when I retire and I have time is to travel Europe extensively and also places like this.
“It’s nice to be at the Pinnacles today, it looks amazing – like on the moon.
“I’ve never been on the moon but that’s maybe how it could look like to some extent (but) maybe with not this many people.”
Federer will play in the Hopman Cup alongside Belinda Bencic, whom he won the title with an 2018. He will kick off his campaign on December 30th against Great Britain.
