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It just is amazing, is it not?
This man, Roger Federer, always seems to come up with the goods, evne when it comes as a surprise.
I remember a few years ago, my brother and I were discussing him, and my brother seemed to suggest that maybe it was time for Federer to retire, that his best days were behind him.
Maybe, I said, but he is still relevant. Sure, he's not winning Grand Slams lately, but he qualifies for the finals often, which is more than most men even manage to do once! Plus, he is in the top ten, which again, for most professionals, would be a dream to reach even once.
Also, I mentioned that I believed he would win at least one more Grand Slam title, and maybe even more.
He seemed to agree with me, albeit a bit hesitantly.
But who could have possibly imagined this level of success that Federer has enjoyed now for the last year and change? Three Grand Slam titles, and now, perhaps the most impressive feat yet, a return to the number one ranking!
Yes, Federer overtook his historically biggest rival, Rafael Nadal, for the world No 1 spot after defeating Grigor Dimitrov 6-2, 6-2 in the final of the Rotterdam Open. This was the 97th title of Federer's obviously storied career.
But in the larger picture, it means that Federer now has achieved the ultimate in terms of prestige: he is the most decorated man in tennis history, and he now holds another record: the oldest man, at 36 years old, in tennis history to hold the top-ranking! He reaches the number one ranking 14 years after first reaching it in 2004!
Former tennis legend Mats Wilander said that this latest accomplishment sets him apart from everyone, even Nadal:
“The fact that he becomes number one fourteen years after the first time is just incredible,” Wilander told French newspaper L’Equipe.
“For me, it proves that Roger has this love for the game that goes beyond winning. But what is most impressive about Federer is what we do not see.
“That's what's happening inside. His greatest talent is not his service or forehand. It's his immutable need of love to learn and that passion for the game.
“He changes his racket. He changes his backhand technique. He changes tactics.
“We talk about his grace, the way he moves on the court.
“But it is this inner strength, this emotional part, fragile and invisible, that places it far in front of everyone.
“For twelve months, Roger is in front. He beat Nadal last year four times in a row. He’s the best.”
Federer To Return To No. 1, Reaches Rotterdam SFs by ATP Staff, February 16, 2018:
Roger Federer: The one reason Swiss star is far better than Rafael Nadal - Mats Wilander By DAN GIBBS PUBLISHED: 08:28, Mon, Feb 19, 2018:
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