With the French Open behind us, tennis fans will soon be turning their thoughts to Wimbledon. Once again, the gaze falls on the man who has won the tournament more than anyone else - and who only fools would bet against in 2017: Roger Federer.
Federer will be 36 this August, making him one of the oldest players on the tour ever. Yet somehow, the Swiss maestro is still picking up titles. Few will forget his memorable - and record-breaking - 18th title at this year’s Australian Open.
After breaking the record, it might have been reasonable to expect Federer to retire, but he’s made it clear he’s not finished yet. It’s enough to make you wonder: Have I still got the chance to see Federer in action? Where can I get tickets for the Australian Open? Is Federer going to be there?
It seems likely he will, as he continues to defy age with every performance. It’s enough to make you wonder how he’s managing to stay at the top of the sport, at an age when most players would have been longer retired.
No one knows for sure but Federer himself, but there are a few conclusions one can naturally come to…
#1 - He’s Still Hungry For Success
Despite everything he has achieved, there’s no doubt that Federer is just as competitive as he ever has been. He very much seems to feel his career is unfinished, as well as making it clear that he still enjoys playing.
That is a potent combination; enjoyment being encouraged by a drive to succeed. Given that we are frequently told that sport is at least 50% mental, it seems Federer’s mind can overcome the age of his body.
#2 - He’s Been Lucky With Injury
The great rival of Federer’s career - Rafael Nadal - has been besieged by injury, while Federer has retained health throughout much of his career. Of course, being a professional sportsman, he’s had his fair share of problems: a nagging back injury has bothered him for several years and he suffered a knee injury in a domestic accident that required surgery. However, he has definitely been fortunate over the years.
#3 - He Knows When To Stop
Perhaps the most admirable thing about Federer is that he knows when to take time off and give his body a break. For some years now, he has been taking time off the tour to recover from niggling injuries.
Given his position in the game he has been able to do so without concern for his ranking, and it has no doubt made a difference to his longevity. Federer even skipped the entire clay court season in 2017 to ensure he was fit for Wimbledon; chances are he will take another extended break once that tournament is concluded.
Now he does not feel obligated to play a full season, Federer is in a good position to rest his body when required. This means he will be around for awhile yet, much to the delight of tennis fans across the globe.
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