Two years ago, Roger Federer suffered one of the toughest defeats of his glorious career against Novak Djokovic at Wimbledon – four hours and 57 minutes. Federer earned 14 points more than Djokovic in this exciting title match at the All England Club, scored four breaks more than the defending champion and wasted two match points on his serve at 8-7 in the decisive set.
Novak delivered nerves of steel in all three tiebreakers to take Major’s 16th title without a break chance in the first two hours and 15 minutes and still extended the lead! Federer led 5-3 before losing four points in a row to hand it over to Djokovic, who scored no winners or mistakes on those ten points in the first set’s tie-break.
The Swiss quickly put this setback behind him, attacked the Serbs to win the second set 6-1 and ranked as the best player in the third, but missed a break chance that set up the second tiebreak.
Novak won it 7-4 after six penalties from Roger, four in a casual area from the backhand, costing him a slow start and a better finish. After all sorts of drama in the decisive set and survived games 16 and 23, Novak was the favorite in the decisive tiebreak, taking the title 7: 3 and one of his most extraordinary wins.
Federer needs a coffee to wake up in the morning
Roger Federer played his first match on grass in almost two years when he faced Ilya Ivashka in the first round of the Noventi Open 2021 on Monday. Federer was rusty at the start and also showed some nervousness, but finally got through with 7-6 (4), 7-5.
“I had a difficult moment in the first set when he had a breakpoint, so it was crucial to get out of those and then I played a really good tiebreaker that I was excited about,” said Federer.
“I think over the course of the game I created more opportunities and calmed my nerves a bit; overall I think I served very well. Of course, it can always be a little better, but I’m happy and excited to be was able to get through the first “, continues Roger Federer.
“The back is good, I feel good from this point of view. It’s really just the legs and the fitness I’m looking forward to and getting through the breaks.” The only thing I can feel at any time is age, “said Federer.
“I’m a bit stiff for the first five minutes (after waking up) before my first coffee. But I think everyone has that.” Photo credit: EFE
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