Roger Federer took full advantage of his recent run of excellent form as he crowned himself champion at his hometown tournament in Basel.
The Swiss was in cruise control throughout the week and, although he dropped two sets (with Uzbek Denis Istomin and Croat Ivo Karlovic respectively), he found his game when it mattered most. He beat red-hot Belgian David Goffin 6-2,6-2 to claim his 6th trophy on homesoil. It's worth mentioning that Federer took advantage of some convenient defeats. For example his arch-rival, second-seeded Rafael Nadal, lost to 17 y.o. Croatian sensation Borna Coric in the quarterfinals.
"It is always such a treat to be in the final here, receiving a standing ovation from the crowd," confessed Roger. "It's why I play tennis, why I play the tournament here in Basel. It will remain very special for me personally.
The triumph is crucial for the Swiss who closes the gap in the battle for the year-end No.1 finish. Novak Djokovic now leads the race by less than 500 points, a very narrow margin considering there are 2500 points left up for grabs in the two final tournaments. Paris will probably shed more light on the matter, but the ATP World Tour Championships in London will have the final say.
"It would be very special to reclaim No. 1," told Federer. "World No. 1 is what it's all about in our game. With the year I have had and the amount of finals I have played, the level of tennis I have played, I am pleased to see that I have a shot. But having a shot and being there is two separate things. I am sure that Novak is going to come in very motivated, just after having a baby. I am very happy for him. There are clearly interesting weeks ahead."
As the Swiss said, there are definitely interesting times ahead, so let's wish him the best of luck! #Letsdothis #FedererMagicIsOn
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| Federer continued his quest for the year-end No.1 position by claiming his sixth hometown crown in Basel. In the final, the Swiss beat red-hot Belgian David Goffin 6-2,6-2. |
photos: GETTY IMAGES
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