Roger Federer expresses surprise following his 6-4, 7-5 win over Wawrinka to clinch record-equalling fifth title at 35, says he has managed to exceed expectations by clinching two trophies this year
Switzerland’s Roger Federer lifts the winner’s trophy after his 6-4, 7-5 win over compatriot Stanislas Wawrinka in the Indian Wells Masters final at California on Sunday. Pic/AFP
Indian Wells (US): The latest instalment of Roger Federer’s “fairytale” return to the top of the men’s game - victory in the Indian Wells - has left him reassessing his goals.
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The 35-year-old’s career was in question last year after a knee injury saw him miss the second half of the season, but he produced a stunning comeback win in January when he claimed an 18th grand slam title with victory at the Australian Open.
Switzerland’s Stan Wawrinka
Game’s greatest player?
And arguably the game’s greatest player followed that up in Indian Wells, beating countryman Stan Wawrinka 6-4, 7-5 in Sunday’s final. It sees him move up to six in the world. “I am the champion here and it is a beautiful feeling,” Federer told Sky Sports. “It is maybe not as surprising as Australia but still unbelievably surprising for me that I was able to back it up here in America. I played well all week and I couldn’t be more happy.
“I have totally exceeded my expectations, my goal was to be Top-8 by Wimbledon. I have time now and I can go and sit back! From that stand point it is an unbelievable start to the year. It could have been so different, if I had lost in the first round in Australia I would have been 35th in the world so it is a dream start.”
The Swiss has not topped the rankings since 2012, but a return to the summit is not infeasible given his form and Murray and Djokovic’s struggles this year.
Roger to review his goals
However, he is reluctant to set such a target and wants to enjoy his win. “I understand the talk of World No. 1, especially with Novak and Andy not playing in Miami. So I will try and back it up there. Then we will reassess my goals but I am not chasing rankings, I want to win tournaments. I am happy I have won this one so I want to enjoy it,” he added.
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