With all that he has achieved, it is easy to forget that it has almost been a decade since Roger Federer last successfully defended a grand slam title.
The 36-year-old is regarded by many as the top title contender at this year’s Australian Open. He enters the Melbourne major in a completely opposite scenario to 2017. Last year he was on the comeback from a knee injury with uncertainty casted over how he would fair in the draw. 12 months later, he is now the fit one as his rivals struggle with their own physical problems. It is an ironic outcome and one that Federer can’t quite believe himself.
“I play down my chances just because I don’t think a 36-year-old should be a favourite of a tournament, it should not be the case.” He told reporters on Sunday.
“That’s why I see things more relaxed, you know, at a later stage of my career.”
Federer will start his Melbourne campaign on Tuesday against Aljaz Bedene in what will be their first tour meeting. Making his 19th consecutive main draw appearance, the world No.2 is aiming to do something no male tennis player has ever done before. Win a 20th grand slam title in the singles. Although that seems like a very long way away for the Swiss player, who admits that he is yet to reach top form.
“I’m not at 100%, but you never know in a week’s time what’s going to be happening.” He explained. “If you’re in the draw, you give yourself a chance. That’s what happened for me last year. All ended up way better than I thought it would.”
The injury bench
As the second seed finalise his preparations ahead of the event, others will be watching from the sidelines. Andy Murray recently underwent hip surgery and Kei Nishikori is yet to be fit enough to play five-set matches following his wrist injury. Meanwhile, Stan Wawrinka, Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal are all still on the comeback from their injury problems.
Calls have been made for adjustments to the schedule following the series of high-profile injuries. Although those calls are being met with scepticism from Federer. Based on his own experience of the tour, the problem likes with age and how players schedule their own tournaments. Not the ATP itself.
“The moment when top guys are hurt, you guys (the media) know about it.” Said Federer.
“There’s maybe many other players that are injured right now, but we don’t talk about it because they’re playing on Court 25. I think that also makes a bit of a difference.”
“The ATP is looking into it. From what I heard, there was actually less injuries throughout.” He added.
Could the reason for Federer’s current form at his age be due to his style of play? Some say his game is less demanding on his body compared to those known as ‘baseline grinders.’ Although this is disputed by Federer, who describes his off-season as ‘tougher than tournaments.’
“I think attacking tennis also has a lot of wear and tear on the body because being highly explosive is something that’s a big challenge.” He said.
“Playing more of a reactive game is maybe more physical in the sense that you play longer rallies, you spend more time on the court, but it’s always pretty much the same. It’s a similar rhythm.”
Regardless of the debate, history beckons for Federer. Next week will be his 72nd appearance in a grand slam.
