Federer tense ahead of date with history

 

Originally published on: 26/02/10 12:39

Federer has been in a relaxed mood ever since winning his first French Open last month, equalling Pete Sampras’ record of 14 grand slam titles and becoming only the sixth man in history to win all four.

But the 27-year-old concedes the nerves will still be jangling and said: “Tension always comes back for any grand slam final, or any final for that matter. Knowing I only have one match to go, it definitely changes your mindset.”

He added: “You don’t have to think of a match coming after this. I will just try to give my very best. The record (15th title) is part of the match so it’s even more of an incentive.”

All the statistics point to a comfortable victory for Federer on Sunday.

The five-time champion has dropped just one set on his way to the final, while Roddick has lost six. Federer has won all seven of the pair’s previous grand slam meetings, including three finals.

Federer is contesting a record 20th grand slam final, Roddick’s last previous final was at the 2006 US Open – where he lost to Federer.

However, having seen Roddick surprisingly get the better of Britain’s third seed Andy Murray in Friday’s semi-finals – Murray had won six of the pair’s previous eight matches – Federer insists he is taking nothing for granted.

Asked what was most challenging about facing Roddick, the world number two said: “His fighting spirit, his belief. He is one of the most consistent players in the last five years.

“It’s nice to see him back in a grand slam final again. We’ve played so many times against each other, we’re almost the same age. He has improved his game again I think, which was important and necessary.”

Now get the WORLD’S BEST TENNIS MAGAZINE here