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Federer Wimbledon 2021
ATP Tennis Players, Roger Federer, Tennis News, Wimbledon

‘There is only one Federer,’ Gasquet relishes clash despite abysmal record


French star Richard Gasquet admitted he is relishing the challenge of playing Roger Federer despite a poor record against the Swiss star.

Gasquet, who is a two-time semi-finalist at Wimbledon, said he was looking forward to a meeting with Federer ever since he saw the draw and knew it would be a match worthy of Centre Court.

The 35-year-old came through comfortably against Yuichi Sugita 7-6, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1, whilst Federer can count himself a little fortunate after Adrian Mannarino was forced to withdraw with a knee complaint in the fifth set.

“When I was in the first round, I saw the draw. I knew I could play Roger in the second round,” Gasquet told the ATP Tour website before Thursday’s second-round match.

“Of course, it’s wonderful for me, because I will play on Centre Court. It’s Roger Federer, I’ve played him many times.”

The pair have met 20 times in their illustrious careers, though Gasquet has only tasted victory twice against the Swiss, with his last win coming in Rome back in 2011. In their last 10 meetings, Federer has not dropped a set against the Frenchman.

Ahead of his clash against the 20-time Grand Slam champion, Gasquet, who is known for possessing an aesthetically pleasing backhand, said there is more to the ‘greatest’ debate than just Grand Slam titles.

“There is technique, the beauty of the game, the motion,” he added. “He’s a classic player, an incredible player, the best player to watch. There is only one Roger Federer.”


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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.