World number three Roger Federer went the distance in his fourth-round French Open 2012 match against lucky loser and avid fan David Goffin on Sunday at the Roland Garros stadium and prevailed after a first set blip. Federer beat the young Belgian player with 5-7, 7-5, 6-2, 6-4.
“I thought he played really well. Great impression,” Federer said of his opponent.
“He took the ball early every time. Don’t hit a very good shot, he can take advantage of that. He’s got great potential in terms of his touch and the way he reads the game. I thought it was an interesting match. Obviously in some ways I guess it’s tough for me coming out not knowing exactly what his favourite patterns are in the game, the way he serves, when he does what. But, no, he impressed me, and I enjoyed the match today,” he added.
With the win, Federer continues the record of most consecutive quarterfinal or better finishes at a Grand Slam event at 32. Overall, he has tied Andre Agassi for second with 36 quarterfinal or better finishes. He is aiming to win his 17th Grand Slam title and first since his victory at the 2010 Australian Open.
