Federer within grasp of magical 100

ROGER Federer isn’t looking beyond the first round as he pursues an unprecedented seventh Australian Open men’s singles crown.

Champion the past two years, Federer, 38, is taking nothing for granted – while still aiming high – as he also chases a magical 100th career title in a record-equalling 20th consecutive Open campaign starting on Monday.

“Look, 99’s already an incredible number. I could live happily ever after with 99 too,” the Swiss marvel said. “But if you’re so close and knowing I’m going to be playing this season, I’ll give it a go.

“If it were to happen trying to defend the title in Australia, sure I would take it. I would gladly take it. Reaching a 100 would be s truly special.

“I’m surprised I’m still at this top level.”

He shares the all-time record of six Australian Open titles with resurgent world No.1 Novak Djokovic and Swissbased Aussie great Roy Emerson, who famously taught Federer how to milk cows.

“You might think this is a joke but it’s not at all. He was a farmer back in the day,” Federer said.

“I won Wimbledon back in ’03 and then I went to a home tournament in Gstaad, where he always had his summer camps, and it’s called after him, the stadium there, nowadays and to welcome me, I got a cow as a present.

“And he milked the cow with me or he showed me how to do it. That was the first time I did it, so that was awkward but a great experience.”