Cincinatti down, next NYC

Roger Federer captured his fourth Cincinnati Masters crown with a hard fought win over rejuvenated American Mardy Fish. The win ties Federer for fifth with Bjorn Borg on the open era title list. Astonishingly,  this was Federer’s first title since his Australian Open triumph back in January. However, in preparation for his assault at his 17th grand slam title, the win could not have come at a better time.

Eye brows were raised when Federer lost in the quarterfinals of both The French Open and Wimbledon. For the vast majority of current male players, this would be considered a wonderful effort. But for a man who hadn’t lost before the semi final of a major since the French Open in 2004 ... a man who has won 16 grand slam singles titles in seven years, these losses would be enough for the toughest critics to start asking questions.

However Roger Federer has captivated and inspired millions over the years with his exquisite talent that may never be replicated. He has remained modest and humble in a world full of sporting controversies. He offered no excuses during these unexpected losses. Only speaking of his eagerness to spend time with his family, and working on his game before the US summer, which he has done.

Federer took six weeks off before embarking on his quest for a sixth US Open crown, starting with the master’s series in Toronto. During this time he employed the coaching services of well known American Paul Annacone who is known for bringing out the best in his clients, especially in the latter stages of their career. He did this for both Sampras and Henman. Most telling was Sampras’s 2002 US Open triumph which not many believed he could win. Fittingly, it was the last match of his wonderful career.

Annacone seems like a perfect fit for Federer, which is already paying dividends. Both are apparently very laid back individuals, with a deep appreciation for the history of the game. Federer is the smoothest player to ever grace our court, and as long as he is healthy, doesn’t need a drastic change in his game. He needs someone to give him subtle pointers to give him that small edge against his toughest opponents. He needs someone to keep him motivated and further ignite his love for the game. Annacone seems like the breath of fresh air the Swiss superstar craves.

Federer’s semi final victory over Marcos Baghdatis was the best he has played since the Australian Open. He had spoken about how unhappy he was with his return game in the last two majors. This was put to rest when the Cypriot only won 50% of points on his first serve. Federer kept taking the returns early and wasn’t afraid to move in completely, taking Baghdatis out of his comfort zone. His forehand was lethal, his movement was graceful, and he amazingly only lost three points on his serve in the hour long demolition.

However, Federer showed the mental toughness that is needed to prevail in the big tournaments with his win over Mardy Fish. Fish was the feel good story of the week. He was attempting to win his first master’s title at the age of 29, and had played a lot of tennis coming into the final. Fish was playing like he had nothing to lose with the help of a very patriotic crowd. Federer dealt with the frustration of outplaying Fish the first set but still losing it. He had to play a second set tie breaker knowing he was only seven points away from losing, and he had to continue to hold serve game after game throughout the match before claiming victory.

The Swiss magician will once again be the player to beat at the year’s final grand slam. Although he will be seeded number two, he is joint leader of the US series points race, and has won at Flushing Meadows five out of the last six years. He toughest opponents look vulnerable.  Rafael Nadal still looks uncomfortable on the very fast hard court surface. Andy Murray cannot be considered the favorite coming into a major until he wins one, and Novak Djokovic looks destined to never beat a top ten player again, without falling sick at least.

Once again the tennis world will watch as Roger Federer plays for his 17th Grand slam. He has recently spoken of his desire to claim an incredible twenty major singles crowns. The way he has dominated tennis now for so many years one would have to be brave to doubt his predictions. He is certainly the best tennis player to ever play, and perhaps the best sportsman. Tennis is a game played by so many in all different countries. For one man to dominate over an extended period of time is truly and incredible achievement. From a tennis fans point of view we say “Thank you Roger.”