Men’s Final: Federer v Cilic
Originally published on 16/07/17 00:00
Marin Cilic (CRO) [7] v Roger Federer (SUI) [3]
Federer leads the head to head count with Cilic 6-1. The pair met at the last eight stage of Wimbledon last year and the Croatian squandered a two set advantage before losing a decider.
The Swiss maestro is no stranger to breaking records and he has the chance to win an unprecedented 8th Wimbledon title today. The 35-year-old is also looking to become the third man in the Open era to win multiple Grand Slams without conceding a single set.
The seven-time champion has been in majestic form throughout 2017 but he appears to have raised the bar even higher at his favourite Grand Slam haunt. He dismissed Tomas Berdych in the semi-finals with unerring ease and his sonorous forehand was deadly.
Regardless of the opposition, Federer is not going to deviate from the gamestyle that has taken him to 18 major titles. "Of course I'm going to try to play within myself," said the 35-year-old. "I have to play offensive as if you give Marin time on the ball, he can finish points nicely.
"The court is still playing quite fast. It helps on my serve, but it also helps him. I'm sure it's going to be a close match."
Cilic has also been in fine fettle in the tournament so far and he is seeking a second major triumph after unexpected success in New York three years ago. The 28-year-old has lost 11 of his last 12 matches against top five players, though, and he accepts he could hardly be facing tougher opposition.
“Roger is playing maybe some of his best tennis of his career at the moment. He is having a great season so I know it's going to be a huge challenge, but I’m ready.”
The biggest challenge facing Cilic is to find a way to break his opponent’s serve. In six matches at the All England Club, Federer’s serve has been breached just four times and his tiebreak record has been impeccable when pushed the distance.
It’s a match-up between two attack-minded players and the points will be short and sharp. Cilic has the firepower to trouble the Swiss, but it’s vital he wins the first set and gets a foothold in the match.
Prediction: Federer in Four
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