Tsonga pulls off Federer scalp

 

Originally published on: 29/06/11 18:15

Jo-Wilfried Tsonga scored the shock of the tournament so far after beating Roger Federer to end the Swiss’ latest hope of equalling Pete Sampras’ record of seven Wimbledon titles.  

The Frenchman hit back from two sets down, becoming the first player ever to recover from such a deficit against Federer in a Grand Slam, to record a phenomenal 3-6 6-7 6-4 6-4 6-4 triumph.  

“I felt so good on the court. I was quick. I was just perfect today,” said the 26-year-old after celebrating his impressive scalp by adding a few extra twirls to his customary crowd-pleasing celebration. “I’m the kind of player who likes these big moments, so I hope I will have some more.”  

Federer, meanwhile, was downbeat but philosophical in defeat, praising Tsonga for his part in an enthralling five-setter.  

“I think he played an amazing match,” said the Swiss. “Didn’t give me many chances. There were some close ones along the way, but he always was able to sneak out on me.” 

Federer dismissed suggestions that he might have been particularly frustrated after missing another chance to equal Pistol Pete’s record of seven titles on the SW19 lawns.  

“Obviously it’s the second year running that the talk has been about me equalling Pete’s seven Wimbledon’s, but I didn’t feel that makes it particularly special,” Federer stated. “I love equalling any record Pete has made, but it’s not the driving force behind my motivation.”

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