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Fit Federer ready for more after Basel win


 

Originally published on: 07/11/11 10:33

Roger Federer won his first title since the turn of the year on Sunday, beating Kei Nishikori 6-1 6-3 for his fifth triumph at the Swiss Indoors Basel.

The 30-year-old home favourite had not won silverware on the ATP Tour since beating Nikolay Davydenko in the Doha final in January, but outclassed the 21-year-old Japanese player to secure the 68th ATP crown of his career.

“I’m feeling really fit and I’m ready for more,” said Federer, who will be in Paris this week aiming to capitalise on the wavering fitness of rivals Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray.

The Serb and world No.1 was beaten by Nishikori in the semi-finals after struggling with a shoulder injury, Rafael Nadal pulled out of Paris on fitness grounds and Andy Murray returns only after pulling out of Basel with a muscle strain.

But Federer, who is just two victories short of 800 career wins, appears to be in excellent condition.

“It’s been a long time since I felt so good physically,” said Federer. “I’m feeling ready and fit and fired up, that’s how it’s supposed to be. This is the last push of the season and I’m ready for it.

“It’s been a great start to the autumn, I think my pause paid off,” said the world No.4, who missed the Shanghai Masters with ‘niggling injuries’.

“I’ve got different priorities than some of the younger guys who are ranked around me. I needed to take that time off, it was best for my mind, my body, my family and my fitness. There is a lot of tennis to be played until the end of the season and it will be packed in early 2012. I want to be a danger everywhere that I play.”

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Tim Farthing, Tennishead Editorial Director & Owner, has been a huge tennis fan his whole life. He's a tennis journalist and entrepreneur as well as playing tennis to a national standard. He also helps manage his local club and volunteers for his local tennis organisation. He's a specialist in content about the administration of professional tennis and tennis coaching for all levels.