Wozniacki relishes ‘fun challenge’ while Federer is chasing records in Melbourne
Caroline Wozniacki is entering new territory at the Australian Open as a defending champion for the first time at a major. For Roger Federer, it’s a well-worn experience.
A women’s final last year featuring two players aiming for their first grand slam title finished with Wozniacki holding off top-ranked Simona Halep for the championship.
Federer beat Marin Cilic to win the Australian Open for the sixth time – claiming his 20th major crown – and successfully defend the title he won the previous year.
At 37, he’s still targeting records at his record-equaling 20th Australian Open: to be the first man to win seven Australian Open titles, the first man to win at least seven singles titles at two grand slam tournaments (he has eight Wimbledon titles), and the first man to win five major titles after turning 30.
Federer was asked yesterday how he retained such a high level of health. He said he understood his body and had a great team around him.
“Maybe also the way I play tennis, maybe it’s smoother than the other guys,” said Federer, who is renowned for a style that appears almost effortless, and his stunning, single-handed backhand.
“It just maybe looks that way. I work extremely hard in the matches as well – it just maybe doesn’t come across so much.”
Federer, aiming for his 100th career title, will open against Denis Istomin on Rod Laver Arena this morning.
Wozniacki, meanwhile, faces Alison Van Uytvanck. “I think it’s a positive to be here as the defending champion. I’m just taking it as a nice, fun challenge,” the third-seeded Wozniacki said. “I can’t believe it’s already been a year. It doesn’t feel like it to me.”
Serena Williams was unable to defend her title here last year because she was taking time out after having a baby. Now she’s back, seeded 16th, aiming for an eighth Australian title. The 23-time major winner is in the same section as her sister Venus Williams and Halep, who all start action on day two.