Federer Pulls Shanghai Miracle

Just when we thought that Federer's days of magic are long gone, the Swiss put together another masterful performance to claim his first title at the Shanghai Masters, one of the three Masters 1000 trophies missing from his resume (in addition to Monte Carlo and Rome).

But let's not forget that the week started with Federer saving five match points in his first round encounter with Argentinean Leonardo Mayer. All credit to the Swiss, but it was really a stroke of luck that saved him, Mayer's passing shot chipping the net before landing in his court—Federer was outplayed at that point and his Shanghai adventure could have been over. The sensational Heimlich maneuver proved a defining moment, Roger making the most of his second chance by going on and lifting the title. However, it was the extraterrestrial performance against world No.1, Novak Djokovic, in the semis, that got everyone talking. It was a super serve and volley display from the vintage Federer who broke once in each set to extract revenge on Djokovic for his heart-breaking defeat in the Wimbledon final. 

“It was a great match,” declared a thrilled Federer. “I think I played very well. There was nothing in the game today that wasn't working. I think it was a high-level match. I'm unbelievably happy with the way it went.”

Although he didn't quite maintained the same level in the final, Roger did an excellent job to dismiss the fierce opposition of the always dangerous Frenchman Gilles Simon. Although Simon has made a reputation of challenging him in the past, the Swiss remained strong when it mattered most, recovering from a break down in the opener on his way to a 7-6,7-6 victory. 

"It makes me very happy winning here because this tournament means a lot to me," said Federer. "I've always enjoyed coming here. I've come close a couple of times, but I've always wanted to win it as a Masters 1000.

"I feel unbelievable prestige to win this event. Especially putting my hands on the trophy for the first time is a good feeling, I must say. I'm very happy with the way I'm playing. Overall I'm just extremely happy right now."

Simon had a great week too, stunning Australian Open champion, Stan Wawrinka, and the always-dangerous Czech, Tomas Berdych, en route to his second Masters 1000 final (he lost to Andy Murray in the 2008 Madrid final).

In addition to claiming the elusive Shanghai trophy, Federer has also reduced the difference between him and Novak Djokovic at the top of the rankings. The battle for the year-end No.1 is very much on right now, with the Swiss having a decent shot of grabbing that last-minute provided solid showings in Basel, the Paris Masters, and the Masters Cup in London. #LetsdothisFederer!

After saving five match points in the first round, an overly aggressive Roger Federer took full advantage of his second chance, going all the way to lifting the Shanghai Masters 1000 crown. In the final, the Swiss defeated Gilles Simon.

photos: GETTY IMAGES