Roger Federer is chasing greatness at Rotterdam this week, vying to become the oldest World Number One in ATP history.
Federer had a clear mandate while enrolling himself for this tournament, and he hasn’t shied away from talking about it with the press.
The 20 time Grand Slam champion will have to make it to the semi-final of the tournament in order to return to that much valued number 1 ranking, something that he and the millions of Tennis fans would never have dreamt about when he had opted for that 6 month injury layoff two years back.
Federer spoke to the press before the start of his Rotterdam campaign, where he could possibly face his old mate and countrymen Stanislas Wawrinka in the all important quarter-final.
Roger also spoke about how he is working towards extending his career and what kind of planning is required in order to do that.
“I’ve won three slams now in 12 months. I can’t believe it myself. I just got to keep a good schedule, stay hungry, then maybe good things can happen.
“I don’t think age is an issue, per se. It’s just a number,” he said after winning the Melbourne title for a sixth time.
“But I need to be very careful in my planning, really decide beforehand what are my goals, what are my priorities. I think that’s what’s going to dictate how successful I will be.” Federer said.
Federer last played in Rotterdam in 2013, having won it 2005 and 2012.
Talking about the Rotterdam Open, Federer said that he had a lot of fond memories there.
“If I’m here it’s because I really want to be here. I really want to give it a chance and see what happens.
My family, my wife, my friends, my coaching team; everybody needs to be on board with this that I’m doing and not just that it’s ok to do or that I’m supposed to be doing this.
“Honestly, memories are very strong for this tournament. It is one of my favourites, I love playing here. I won here back in 2012 and it’s not too far away from home so it made the decision that bit easier.” Federer said.
Grigor Dimitrov, David Goffin, Alexander Zverev and Tomas Berdych are the other notable layers taking part in the tournament and would be hoping to stop Federer in quest for that elusive World Number 1 ranking!
