After winning his Australian Open 2013 second round match against Nikolay Davydenko of Russia, world number two Roger Federer said that he believes he’s a better and stronger player today than a decade ago. This statement certainly sends a clear message to everyone in the field that he’s not about to hang up his racquet soon.
“I would hope I’m a better player today,” Federer said.
“I know what to expect from myself. I’m much stronger today physically, so I can always rely on that as well. Whereas in the past people knew or thought, ‘if you go past two hours on clay against Federer, he’ll not get better from that point on, he’ll get weaker,” he added.
Federer improved to 18-2 win loss record against Davydenko, a former world number three.
“That’s something I wanted to work on and have it where people thought the other way, I was going to get stronger after two hours. That’s the mindset you have to have in training, that’s when I went to work and that’s why I’m the player I am today. I’m happy I was able to and find a way and be successful for a long period of time,” he said.
The Swiss star will face Australian Bernard Tomic in the third round. Tomic is currently enjoying a stellar first part of the season, having won his first career ATP Tour title at the Apia International Sydney last weekend. The 17-time Grand Slam champion said he’s not going to underestimate his younger opponent.
“To me, he seems to be more of a guy that likes to be on Centre Court, playing against the top guys, feeling like he belongs there. I think it’s going to make it easier for him to play me,” he said.
