Federer retains his focus

ROGER Federer is confident he has the reserves, skill and confidence to scale the highest mountain in grand slam tennis despite an energy-sapping victory over his greatest rival Rafael Nadal.

Federer will carry a losing record into his 12th Wimbledon final against world No.1 and title favourite Novak Djokovic, with only two wins from his past 10 tilts at the Serb.

Having dispatched Nadal in a superb semi-final Federer said already sits among his favourite matches in a career stretching almost 1500 bouts, the Swiss magician says he still has unfinished business.

“Age kicks in. I know it's not over yet,” he said.

“There's no point to start partying tonight or get too emotional, even though I am extremely happy.

“If it was the end of the tournament, it would be very different right now.

“I'd be speaking very different, feeling very different.

“There is, unfortunately or fortunately, one more.

“It's great on many levels. But got to put my head down and stay focused, you know.”

Federer trails Djokovic in virtually every category heading into the pair’s 48th clash.

Djokovic leads the overall rivalry 25-22 and holds a 9-6 edge in grand slam battles.

He also leads the grasscourt tally.

Federer is sentimental favourite and will command the lion’s share of crowd support as he chases a record ninth Wimbledon trophy and 21st major.

But there is also immense respect for Djokovic, who is obsessed with two records currently in Federer’s possession.

The famously ambitious baseliner covets Federer’s grand slam record of 20 majors and wants to better the Swiss magician’s 310-week spell as world No.1.