Roger Federer

Roger Federer As We Knew Him

This time last year every one around the tennis world was certain that we had begun to see the beginning of the end of Federer. People, including myself were questioning his training, coaching staff, entourage, style of play, etc. even those in the media like John McEnroe and Darren Cahill were reaching out to the superstar to offer their help. Every little move that Federer made scrutiny followed and that all changed after Roland Garros earlier this year. With that victory, Federer  has been able to overcome whatever demons that were playing with the Swiss’ mind. He followed that momentous victory in Paris with his sixth championship at Wimbledon just one month later as he regained the #1 ranking from an injured Rafael Nadal.

Many have argued that Nadal’s misfortune had paved the way for Federer to rule the tennis world again. The truth is that with the knowledge that Nadal is no longer an obstacle for him at the end of tournaments, Federer knew that if he dug deep enough against every other player in the world that he most likely could find a way to win, even when he wasn’t playing his best tennis. Here comes the dangerous part, in the last two days not only has Federer brought that aura of mental invincibility against Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic, but his physical level of play has returned to the magic and artistry of the old Federer. Shotmaking and tremendous movement have once again dominated the tennis world just in time for the start of the 2009 US Open in New York. Enjoy the great tennis ahead!

Look for photos from practice sessions and the qualifying rounds from the US Open coming up this week …