I didn’t really think I could get back to No 1 again: Federer
RECORD The Swiss has smashed the previous record held by Andre Agassi by more than three years ROTTERDAM:
Roger Federer became the oldest world number one on Friday when the 20-time Grand Slam winner reached the semi-finals of the Rotterdam Open. The Swiss overcame an early setback to beat Robin Haase of the Netherlands 4-6, 6-1, 6-1 and will replace Rafael Nadal at the top of the rankings.
“What an amazing run it’s been, to be number one again means a lot to me,” Federer said.
“This is incredibly special, I’m so happy. I didn’t really think I could get back to No 1, this is a significant moment in my career.”
SURPASSING ANOTHER LEGEND
Federer surpasses Andre Agassi, who held the top spot aged 33 years and 131 days in 2003, as the oldest man to claim the world number one spot.
It is Federer’s first time back at the summit since October 2012 having first claimed the top position in February 2004.
“Reaching No 1 is the ultimate achievement in tennis. When you’re older you have to work double the amount, you have to wrestle it back from someone who’s also worked hard to get there. It’s a dream come true,” added Federer. “It’s been an amazing journey and to clinch it here, where I got my first wildcard in 1998, means so much.”
Agassi was amongst the first to congratulate Federer. “36 years 195 days... @rogerfederer continues to raise the bar in our sport. Congratulations on yet another remarkable achievement!!,” tweeted the American.
Federer had talked on Thursday of his desire to retake the Andre Agassi Rafael Nadal (Spain) Jimmy Connors (United States) Ivan Lendl (Cze/United States)
world number one spot but doubted it would ever happen after he underwent knee surgery last year. “I’ve struggled to try and get there. I had to win a lot of matches last year,” said Federer, 18-02-2018 (31 years and 260 days) 03-07-1983 (30 years and 304 days) 12-08-1990 (30 years and 158 days)
The ageless wonder dropped his first set of the week against Haase, who later said he had been sick all week and unable to do any more than play his matches.
Federer was on his heels in the opening set as Haase prevailed, but the Swiss regained control to ease to the victory as he controlled the Dutchman in the remainder of the match.
The Swiss triumphed in 79 minutes, ending with six aces. Haase finished on a disappointing note with his second double-fault on match point.
“To rank this high, I don’t know how I did it. This is really big for me, especially because of the gap (between his last time at the top). It’s double as nice at my age to be number one, there is a lot that goes into it.”
Federer will face Andreas Seppi for a spot in the final.