Evergreen Roger vows to defend title next year

RogeR FedeReR snatched a precious couple of hours sleep after his Australian open celebration party and re-emerged to reassure fans that he will be back next year.

‘Maybe next year when I do come back, I might actually think I can win it, and then I probably won’t,’ Federer (below) half-joked as he paraded the trophy at government House. ‘It’s better to stay really relaxed about my chances, especially in my later years on the tour. I think it’s served me well to be relaxed.’

The 36-year-old Swiss was quick to play down expectations that he might reach the grand Slam totals of Serena Williams or Margaret Court, on 23 and 24 respectively.

‘I didn’t think 20 was even possible to be honest,’ he said. ‘It’s not something I have even thought about. I’m very happy to be at 20.’

Rod Laver, again watching a player with whom he has forged a close bond, repeated his assertion that Federer is the greatest male player of all time. ‘It’s unusual to see a wonderful champion like that be able to win at age 36 after seven tough matches,’ said the Australian legend. ‘You just marvel at his tenacity. ‘He just seems like he’s floating all around the court — he’s not running. He’s stood the test of time — that’s probably the one thing that puts you in that category of the best ever.’ After his run to the Australian open semi-final, Kyle edmund hasmoved to world No 26. Andy Murray is down to 20 as he recovers from hip surgery. Regardless of results, edmund will overtake Murray as British No 1 on March 5. Jo Konta’s secondround exit here sees her slip one place to No 11 in the WTA rankings.