18-time grand slam champion Roger Federer is keeping his focus on his health after winning his third title of the season at the Miami Open.
The 35-year-old overcame Rafael Nadal 6-3, 6-4, to win his 91st ATP title and complete the sunshine double in Indian Wells and Miami. His latest triumph saw Federer drop just two sets on route to the title. The Swiss player now has a 19-1 win-loss record this season as he declares the end of his comeback.
“The comeback is over. (It is) still a comeback year, I did say that Miami.” Said Federer.
“I’’m happy that nothing major happened throughout this period. It’s been a dream run on the court; off the court as well my body has reacted very well and I couldn’t be happier.” He added.
Experiencing a torrid 2016, Federer was forced to stop his season after Wimbledon due to a troublesome knee injury. He ended his six-month hiatus in January this year and has been a formidable force ever since. In the ATP Race To London, he leads with 4045 points (nearly 2000 points than his nearest rival). An impressive outcome considering he has played just four tournaments so far this season.
“I think I am definitely profiting from confidence, and then also from the right mindset, able to compress all my energy into one single match and not be distracted by everything else going on around me.” He explained.
Time for a break
Relishing in his resurgence, Federer himself is aware of the toll it is taking on his body. A veteran of the tour at the age of 35, Federer’s dominance is more about careful scheduling than playing numerous tournaments. He is currently the oldest man ranked in the world’s top-20.
Due to his previous injury misfortunes, the upcoming clay swing of the tour will be a recuperation period. Announcing on Sunday that he will not play any clay events before the French Open, the Australian Open champion explained that rest is key to his longevity on the tour.
“At the end of the day, I need to look out for my health, that I’m happy with all parts of my life, personal, private, on-court life, professional life, and I can’t keep this pace up on every single day. Just too much and I’ll run out. The desire will run out.” Federer stated.
“I would rather stay take a step back and then really come back with a lot of energy and happiness.”
The decision comes as no surprise considering the grass season is near. Since winning the Australian Open, Federer has repeatedly spoke about his aim of triumphing at the Wimbledon championships, an event he has already won seven times. His love affair with the grass is something rooted throughout his career. Since winning his first grass court title at the 2003 Halle Open, Federer has won a total of 15 titles on the grass.
“Wimbledon has to be the biggest goal, I mean now in the near future.” He said.
As Federer takes a break from the tour, his rivals will be eager to reestablish their dominance on the tour. With little play on the clay, it is hard to expect a Federer triumph at Roland Garros. On the other hand, the grass courts at SW19 could witness something special later this year.
