World number one Roger Federer picked up where he left off, winning the four games he needed to defeat Federico Delbonis on Sunday after their match was interrupted the night before by rain.

Federer returned to stadium court on Sunday afternoon and needed an hour to finish off his second round victory 6-3, 7-6 (8/6).

His title defence got off to a soggy start Saturday night when play was suspended because of rain showers with Federer up a set and tied 2-2 in the second.

The storm clouds rolled in just before the start of their match on Saturday and after a short delay to start the first set they managed to play until the heavy rains came in the second. After another 90-minute delay organizers suspended play for the night.

Federer is making his 17th appearance in the California desert and is assured of remaining world number one if he makes it to the semi-finals in Indian Wells.

He extended his 2018 win streak to 13 matches and has only dropped three sets from 34 played this year. Federer will face 25th-seed Filip Krajinovic in the third round.

&nbsp;

Roger Federer defeat Federico Delbonis 6-3, 7-6 and will meet Filip Krajinovic in the next match

World number one Roger Federer picked up where he left off, winning the four games he needed to defeat Federico Delbonis on Sunday after their match was interrupted the night before by rain. Federer returned to stadium court on Sunday afternoon and needed an hour to finish off his second round victory 6-3, 7-6 (8/6). His title defence got off to a soggy start Saturday night when play was suspended because of rain showers with Federer up a set and tied 2-2 in the second. The storm clouds rolled in just before the start of their match on Saturday and after a short delay to start the first set they managed to play until the heavy rains came in the second. After another 90-minute delay organizers suspended play for the night. Federer is making his 17th appearance in the California desert and is assured of remaining world number one if he makes it to the semi-finals in Indian Wells. He extended his 2018 win streak to 13 matches and has only dropped three sets from 34 played this year. Federer will face 25th-seed Filip Krajinovic in the third round.

World No. 1 Federer wins rain-delayed match

Bill Gates, the world&#39;s richest man worth $91 billion teamed up with tennis world number one Roger Federer for a very special cause and played a tennis match against US tennis player Jack Sock and Savannah Guthrie, the co-anchor of NBC News&#39; TODAY. The most extraordinary doubles team of Roger and Gates won the match though,&nbsp;Savannah being a non-professional, helped her partner Jack to gains some crucial points.

On the&nbsp;opportunity to play alongside tennis legend, Bill Gates said, &quot;I&#39;m a huge fan of Roger Federer, and this Monday I&#39;ll get to play alongside him in the #MatchForAfrica.&quot;

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About to go on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MatchforAfrica?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MatchforAfrica</a> <a href="https://t.co/u0MTB2CNCd">pic.twitter.com/u0MTB2CNCd</a>
&mdash; Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer/status/970863199393218561?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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It&#39;s almost time! Watch <a href="https://twitter.com/SavannahGuthrie?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SavannahGuthrie</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/JackSock?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JackSock</a> take on <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RogerFederer</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/BillGates?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BillGates</a> for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MatchForAfrica?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MatchForAfrica</a> live on the <a href="https://twitter.com/TennisChannel?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TennisChannel</a> at 10:30 pm ET. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GoSavannah?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GoSavannah</a> <a href="https://t.co/2UnvOz20FN">pic.twitter.com/2UnvOz20FN</a>
&mdash; TODAY (@TODAYshow) <a href="https://twitter.com/TODAYshow/status/970856745731088384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The cause of such collaboration is to raise money for&nbsp;Roger Federer Foundation that aims to uplift underprivileged children in Africa so as to empower them by providing educational facilities.

Earlier, Federer and Gates, co-chairman of the Bill &amp; Melinda Gates Foundation, the world&#39;s largest private charitable foundation, teamed up in Seattle for the Match for Africa 4, which raised $2 million for Federer&#39;s foundation.

The Roger Federer Foundation enhances a world where children living in poverty are able to take control of their future and actively shape it with an aims to develop existing educational services and early support in a sustainable way.

In recent years, fundamental problems such as low classroom performance, poor attendance and high numbers of drop-outs, as well as a lack of early childhood education.&nbsp;

The foundation wishes to empower as many African children as possible through access to high-quality early learning and education.

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Coming up at 10:30 pm ET tonight: <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RogerFederer</a> vs. <a href="https://twitter.com/JackSock?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JackSock</a> with <a href="https://twitter.com/BillGates?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BillGates</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/SavannahGuthrie?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SavannahGuthrie</a> in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MatchForAfrica?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MatchForAfrica</a> 5&ndash;&ndash;LIVE on <a href="https://twitter.com/TennisChannel?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TennisChannel</a>: <a href="https://t.co/BJi2TIxHpc">https://t.co/BJi2TIxHpc</a> <a href="https://t.co/5vmhSkPp99">pic.twitter.com/5vmhSkPp99</a>
&mdash; TENNIS.com (@Tennis) <a href="https://twitter.com/Tennis/status/970847970697519104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The match was live on Facebook where Bill Gates raised $17,745 USD for Roger Federer Charitable Fund.

Watch the video&nbsp;here:

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Proud to be on Team Fed. We&rsquo;re ready for you, <a href="https://twitter.com/SavannahGuthrie?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SavannahGuthrie</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/JackSock?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JackSock</a>: <a href="https://t.co/tUifhNNBVO">https://t.co/tUifhNNBVO</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MatchForAfrica?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MatchForAfrica</a> <a href="https://t.co/BMyYpUEmYl">pic.twitter.com/BMyYpUEmYl</a>
&mdash; Bill Gates (@BillGates) <a href="https://twitter.com/BillGates/status/970827375721070592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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The dream team is out again. Roger: &ldquo;I am doing the running, Bill is doing the thinking...&rdquo; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MatchForAfrica5?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MatchForAfrica5</a> <a href="https://t.co/U07ve0IYrM">pic.twitter.com/U07ve0IYrM</a>
&mdash; Roger Federer Fdn (@rogerfedererfdn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfedererfdn/status/970872720245141505?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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We can&#39;t wait to watch <a href="https://twitter.com/SavannahGuthrie?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@savannahguthrie</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/JackSock?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JackSock</a> take on <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rogerfederer</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/BillGates?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@billgates</a> in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MatchforAfrica?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MatchforAfrica</a>! <a href="https://t.co/Mm7lM5Zvm4">https://t.co/Mm7lM5Zvm4</a> ???? <a href="https://t.co/YXRz1o49T8">pic.twitter.com/YXRz1o49T8</a>
&mdash; TODAY (@TODAYshow) <a href="https://twitter.com/TODAYshow/status/970656264610033664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The cause of such collaboration is to raise money for underprivileged children in Africa so as to empower them by providing educational facilities

Bill Gates, the world's richest man worth $91 billion teamed up with tennis world number one Roger Federer for a very special cause and played a tennis match against US tennis player Jack Sock and Savannah Guthrie, the co-anchor of NBC News' TODAY. The most extraordinary doubles team of Roger and Gates won the match though, Savannah being a non-professional, helped her partner Jack to gains some crucial points. On the opportunity to play alongside tennis legend, Bill Gates said, "I'm a huge fan of Roger Federer, and this Monday I'll get to play alongside him in the #MatchForAfrica." About to go on #MatchforAfrica pic.twitter.com/u0MTB2CNCd — Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) March 6, 2018 × It's almost time! Watch @SavannahGuthrie and @JackSock take on @RogerFederer and @BillGates for #MatchForAfrica live on the @TennisChannel at 10:30 pm ET. #GoSavannah pic.twitter.com/2UnvOz20FN — TODAY (@TODAYshow) March 6, 2018 × The cause of such collaboration is to raise money for Roger Federer Foundation that aims to uplift underprivileged children in Africa so as to empower them by providing educational facilities. Earlier, Federer and Gates, co-chairman of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the world's largest private charitable foundation, teamed up in Seattle for the Match for Africa 4, which raised $2 million for Federer's foundation. The Roger Federer Foundation enhances a world where children living in poverty are able to take control of their future and actively shape it with an aims to develop existing educational services and early support in a sustainable way. In recent years, fundamental problems such as low classroom performance, poor attendance and high numbers of drop-outs, as well as a lack of early childhood education. The foundation wishes to empower as many African children as possible through access to high-quality early learning and education. Coming up at 10:30 pm ET tonight: @RogerFederer vs. @JackSock with @BillGates and @SavannahGuthrie in the #MatchForAfrica 5––LIVE on @TennisChannel: https://t.co/BJi2TIxHpc pic.twitter.com/5vmhSkPp99 — TENNIS.com (@Tennis) March 6, 2018 × The match was live on Facebook where Bill Gates raised $17,745 USD for Roger Federer Charitable Fund. Watch the video here: × Proud to be on Team Fed. We’re ready for you, @SavannahGuthrie and @JackSock: https://t.co/tUifhNNBVO #MatchForAfrica pic.twitter.com/BMyYpUEmYl — Bill Gates (@BillGates) March 6, 2018 × The dream team is out again. Roger: “I am doing the running, Bill is doing the thinking...” #MatchForAfrica5 pic.twitter.com/U07ve0IYrM — Roger Federer Fdn (@rogerfedererfdn) March 6, 2018 × We can't wait to watch @savannahguthrie and @JackSock take on @rogerfederer and @billgates in the #MatchforAfrica! https://t.co/Mm7lM5Zvm4 ???? pic.twitter.com/YXRz1o49T8 — TODAY (@TODAYshow) March 5, 2018 ×

Watch: Bill Gates teams up with Roger Federer for tennis match

Twenty-time grand slam champion Roger Federer has been honoured with Laureus World Sportsman of the Year and Comeback of the Year awards at the 2018 ceremony in Monaco.

The Swiss fought off competition from Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo and his tennis rival Rafael Nadal to become the Sportsman of the Year.

The two award wins for the Swiss brought his career total of Laureus Awards to six, making him the the most decorated Laureus Winner in history.

The 36-year-old won the Australian Open and Wimbledon titles in 2017 and became the oldest number one after overcoming a serious knee injury.

&quot;It was an unforgettable year for me, to come back after a very difficult 2016, and these awards just make it even more memorable. When I won my first Laureus Award back in 2005, if you had said I would have ended up winning six I would not have believed you. It`s been an amazing ride,&quot; the Sport24 quoted Federer as saying.

Meanwhile, 23-time grand slam winner Serena Williams won the Sportswoman of the Year award.Elsewhere, Mercedes-AMG Petronas was named the Team of the Year award for winning the Formula One constructor&#39;s Championship in 2017.

The 36-year-old won the Australian Open and Wimbledon titles in 2017 and became the oldest number one after overcoming a serious knee injury.

Twenty-time grand slam champion Roger Federer has been honoured with Laureus World Sportsman of the Year and Comeback of the Year awards at the 2018 ceremony in Monaco. The Swiss fought off competition from Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo and his tennis rival Rafael Nadal to become the Sportsman of the Year. The two award wins for the Swiss brought his career total of Laureus Awards to six, making him the the most decorated Laureus Winner in history. The 36-year-old won the Australian Open and Wimbledon titles in 2017 and became the oldest number one after overcoming a serious knee injury. "It was an unforgettable year for me, to come back after a very difficult 2016, and these awards just make it even more memorable. When I won my first Laureus Award back in 2005, if you had said I would have ended up winning six I would not have believed you. It`s been an amazing ride," the Sport24 quoted Federer as saying. Meanwhile, 23-time grand slam winner Serena Williams won the Sportswoman of the Year award.Elsewhere, Mercedes-AMG Petronas was named the Team of the Year award for winning the Formula One constructor's Championship in 2017.

Roger Federer sweeps top honours at Laureus Awards

Legends have one special trait that they never seize to surprise you. Every time you feel that they are at peak, they would nudge you &ldquo;Hey, hang on. I am scaling yet another higher peak&rdquo;.

That&rsquo;s exactly Roger Federer did last week when he reached the summit position of ATP ranking at the age of 36 &frac12; years; the oldest ever to do so.

There has been a flurry of surprises from the great man over the past 13 years. Federer won record 8th&nbsp;Wimbledon title in July 2017 and surprised the world when he won Australian Open in 2018 as 17th seed player; it was his first grand slam after 4 &frac12; years. &nbsp;Early this year he became the first man in the history to win 20 Grand Slam and now the ATP&nbsp;&nbsp;ranking. It was in 2012 when he was a top ranking player last time at the ATP. This is a record of longest gap between two peak rankings (more than five years). That&rsquo;s not all, as far as records are concerned. He reached the peak of ATP ranking first time in 2004. Thus the window for top ATP ranking for Federer spanned for 14 years; it is another world record. The second best is Nadal, who had a window of 9 years &ndash; way behind Federer.

Till 2016, the discussions was that perhaps Federer is the all-time greatest Tennis player but it would be now silly to even deliberate on that. Federer is by far the greatest ever Tennis player.&nbsp;After Federer took the number one ranking last week, I saw an interesting thread on social media where people were arguing that Federer is best ever sportsperson across all sports. Quite interesting but this discussion is actually worthy enough to take place that leave apart Tennis, Federer perhaps is the best sportsperson - all sports, all-times.

Some may frown on this discussion as it is extremely subjective and contentious issue. There is no definite thumb rule or any mathematical model to gauge greatness. It is not an easy task to even compare sportspersons within same sports from different playing era. Thus comparison of players across various sports and across different time zone would surely be an arduous task.

Some would say what about 23 Olympic Gold Medals by Michael Phelps, while some may say that Usain Bolt is the greatest ever with nine Olympic gold medals in sprints. A soccer lover would say how can you ignore a thousand goals by Pele, he is the greatest while a Tennis lover would claim that Federer has won 20 Grand Slams. What about Serena Williams with 23 and Steffi&nbsp;&nbsp;Graf with 22 grand slams? Similarly, there can be multiple other arguments. 
So, it is a tough question but what are the arguments, which supports Federer&rsquo;s case?&nbsp;

A sportsperson is judged on two parameters &ndash; numbers/statistics and slickness &amp; beauty in playing style. Federer scores high on both of these parameters. With 20 Grand Slams and 14 years of grand slam winning spree, numbers&nbsp;unequivocally&nbsp;support Federer. Apart from that, Federer is undisputed the most alluring Tennis player ever. His game is inclusive, he has quick and balanced service, his single-handed backhand is majestic and he sends the ball to the other side of the net with clinical precision.

Federer has been immortalized in a sport which is truly popular across the globe, needs ultimate athleticism and skills and has a tremendous fan following. Moreover, it is an individual sport and therefore Federer is bound to have higher ratings than someone who has excelled in team sports (Like Pele or any of those NBA stars)

Federer has redefined the word longevity. Men&rsquo;s Tennis is one of the most competitive and demanding sports and maintaining a winning spree for more than a decade and a half is truly incredible. The competition at ATP is cut-throat and a slight fall in your fitness level and form can simply lead to a total nosedive. The game is ever evolving and unless you continually improve your game, it is not possible to keep winning against the players from different generations. Take the case of Sachin Tendulkar. Tendulkar scored a Test century in 1990 and then he also scored it in 2011 as well when the very next generation of bowlers had come. That is where the greatness of Tendulkar is that he maintained his game across two generations.

Federer maintained the same kind of level&nbsp;for close to two decades&nbsp;in a sport which evolves even far more rapidly and this puts him in a different league and at a much higher notch altogether.&nbsp;Federer scores high over Serena Williams and Steffi Graf simply because of the reason that&nbsp;Men&rsquo;s Tennis is far more powerful competitive and sapping. Federer also scores high on beautiful and inclusive tennis, which he plays.

Roger Federer is definitely a serious contender for greatest ever sportsperson mankind has seen across all sports, notwithstanding the fact that this is a difficult discussion.

In the last, please don&rsquo;t ever think that Federer has now achieved his peak. For sure you would be proven wrong again by the great man. My take is that basis current situation, he is already a contender to claim Wimbledon and US Open as well during this year. 
&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Leave apart tennis, Roger Federer is greatest ever sportsperson across all the sports.

Legends have one special trait that they never seize to surprise you. Every time you feel that they are at peak, they would nudge you “Hey, hang on. I am scaling yet another higher peak”. That’s exactly Roger Federer did last week when he reached the summit position of ATP ranking at the age of 36 ½ years; the oldest ever to do so. There has been a flurry of surprises from the great man over the past 13 years. Federer won record 8th Wimbledon title in July 2017 and surprised the world when he won Australian Open in 2018 as 17th seed player; it was his first grand slam after 4 ½ years. Early this year he became the first man in the history to win 20 Grand Slam and now the ATP ranking. It was in 2012 when he was a top ranking player last time at the ATP. This is a record of longest gap between two peak rankings (more than five years). That’s not all, as far as records are concerned. He reached the peak of ATP ranking first time in 2004. Thus the window for top ATP ranking for Federer spanned for 14 years; it is another world record. The second best is Nadal, who had a window of 9 years – way behind Federer. Till 2016, the discussions was that perhaps Federer is the all-time greatest Tennis player but it would be now silly to even deliberate on that. Federer is by far the greatest ever Tennis player. After Federer took the number one ranking last week, I saw an interesting thread on social media where people were arguing that Federer is best ever sportsperson across all sports. Quite interesting but this discussion is actually worthy enough to take place that leave apart Tennis, Federer perhaps is the best sportsperson - all sports, all-times. Some may frown on this discussion as it is extremely subjective and contentious issue. There is no definite thumb rule or any mathematical model to gauge greatness. It is not an easy task to even compare sportspersons within same sports from different playing era. Thus comparison of players across various sports and across different time zone would surely be an arduous task. Some would say what about 23 Olympic Gold Medals by Michael Phelps, while some may say that Usain Bolt is the greatest ever with nine Olympic gold medals in sprints. A soccer lover would say how can you ignore a thousand goals by Pele, he is the greatest while a Tennis lover would claim that Federer has won 20 Grand Slams. What about Serena Williams with 23 and Steffi Graf with 22 grand slams? Similarly, there can be multiple other arguments. So, it is a tough question but what are the arguments, which supports Federer’s case? A sportsperson is judged on two parameters – numbers/statistics and slickness & beauty in playing style. Federer scores high on both of these parameters. With 20 Grand Slams and 14 years of grand slam winning spree, numbers unequivocally support Federer. Apart from that, Federer is undisputed the most alluring Tennis player ever. His game is inclusive, he has quick and balanced service, his single-handed backhand is majestic and he sends the ball to the other side of the net with clinical precision. Federer has been immortalized in a sport which is truly popular across the globe, needs ultimate athleticism and skills and has a tremendous fan following. Moreover, it is an individual sport and therefore Federer is bound to have higher ratings than someone who has excelled in team sports (Like Pele or any of those NBA stars) Federer has redefined the word longevity. Men’s Tennis is one of the most competitive and demanding sports and maintaining a winning spree for more than a decade and a half is truly incredible. The competition at ATP is cut-throat and a slight fall in your fitness level and form can simply lead to a total nosedive. The game is ever evolving and unless you continually improve your game, it is not possible to keep winning against the players from different generations. Take the case of Sachin Tendulkar. Tendulkar scored a Test century in 1990 and then he also scored it in 2011 as well when the very next generation of bowlers had come. That is where the greatness of Tendulkar is that he maintained his game across two generations. Federer maintained the same kind of level for close to two decades in a sport which evolves even far more rapidly and this puts him in a different league and at a much higher notch altogether. Federer scores high over Serena Williams and Steffi Graf simply because of the reason that Men’s Tennis is far more powerful competitive and sapping. Federer also scores high on beautiful and inclusive tennis, which he plays. Roger Federer is definitely a serious contender for greatest ever sportsperson mankind has seen across all sports, notwithstanding the fact that this is a difficult discussion. In the last, please don’t ever think that Federer has now achieved his peak. For sure you would be proven wrong again by the great man. My take is that basis current situation, he is already a contender to claim Wimbledon and US Open as well during this year. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Roger Federer is best ever sportsperson across all sports

World number one Roger Federer&nbsp;thrashed Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov 6-2, 6-2 in a one-sided final of the ABN Amro World Tennis Tournament in Rotterdam to claim his 97th title.

In the Open era, only American Jimmy Connors has won more titles with 109.

Federer surpasses Andre Agassi, who held the top spot aged 33 years and 131 days in 2003, as the oldest man to claim the world number one spot.

It is Federer&#39;s first time back at the summit since October 2012 having first claimed the top position in February 2004.

The 36-year-old said, &quot;What a fantastic week. The goal at start of week was to make it to the semi-finals. This is absolutely amazing, I&#39;m really pleased.&quot;

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And that&#39;s a wrap for the tournament ????! The last photo album of the week ????????️! <a href="https://t.co/GtkU3ebKFb">https://t.co/GtkU3ebKFb</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/abnamrowtt?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#abnamrowtt</a> <a href="https://t.co/SZehK52z6P">pic.twitter.com/SZehK52z6P</a>
&mdash; ABN AMRO WTT (@abnamrowtt) <a href="https://twitter.com/abnamrowtt/status/965279234477477889?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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After winning the title he gave a hilarious statement in the post-match interview, &quot;I will definitely check out the new ranking on Monday morning. To make sure that no mistake has been made.&quot;

Federer will now decide within a few days whether or not to travel to Dubai for the ATP event starting a week from Monday.

Federer has a home and training base in the UAE and has won the hardcourt tournament seven times.

His effort in Rotterdam appeared to take little out of him physically, with his only loss of a set coming in the quarter-final against Robin Haase.&nbsp;

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Thank you Rotterdam! You broke the record for attendance.. 120k people! It was an amazing atmosphere ???????????????? <a href="https://t.co/yAVl8woRgH">pic.twitter.com/yAVl8woRgH</a>
&mdash; Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer/status/965325841788907520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Roger Federer thrashed Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov 6-2, 6-2 in a one-sided final of the ABN Amro World Tennis Tournament in Rotterdam to claim his 97th title

World number one Roger Federer thrashed Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov 6-2, 6-2 in a one-sided final of the ABN Amro World Tennis Tournament in Rotterdam to claim his 97th title. In the Open era, only American Jimmy Connors has won more titles with 109. Federer surpasses Andre Agassi, who held the top spot aged 33 years and 131 days in 2003, as the oldest man to claim the world number one spot. It is Federer's first time back at the summit since October 2012 having first claimed the top position in February 2004. The 36-year-old said, "What a fantastic week. The goal at start of week was to make it to the semi-finals. This is absolutely amazing, I'm really pleased." And that's a wrap for the tournament ????! The last photo album of the week ????????️! https://t.co/GtkU3ebKFb #abnamrowtt pic.twitter.com/SZehK52z6P — ABN AMRO WTT (@abnamrowtt) February 18, 2018 × After winning the title he gave a hilarious statement in the post-match interview, "I will definitely check out the new ranking on Monday morning. To make sure that no mistake has been made." Federer will now decide within a few days whether or not to travel to Dubai for the ATP event starting a week from Monday. Federer has a home and training base in the UAE and has won the hardcourt tournament seven times. His effort in Rotterdam appeared to take little out of him physically, with his only loss of a set coming in the quarter-final against Robin Haase. Thank you Rotterdam! You broke the record for attendance.. 120k people! It was an amazing atmosphere ???????????????? pic.twitter.com/yAVl8woRgH — Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) February 18, 2018 ×

World number one Roger Federer claims Rotterdam Open

Marin Cilic praised Roger Federer for becoming the oldest world number one after defeating his opponent Robin Haase to enter the semi-final of the ABN Amro World Tennis Tournament in Rotterdam.

During a press conference, Cilic said, &quot;Now he&#39;s in that position and I think, for tennis, it is great.&nbsp;

He further added, &quot;The players now in the last, maybe 10 years, have pushed the border of playing a little bit longer... he shows also the example that you can still improve at the age that he is.&quot;

Marin Cilic, speaking ahead of the Rio Open which begins on February 19, has referred to Roger Federer&#39;s achievement as &quot;an amazing achievement.&quot;

He said, &quot;I believe that every player, if he has a chance, should think in that way.&quot;

Cilic said his ultimate goal is to follow in Federer&#39;s footsteps and reach the top of the men&#39;s singles rankings.

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/cilic_marin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cilic_marin</a> congratulates <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rogerfederer</a> on becoming World No.1: 
 
&quot;It&#39;s an amazing achievement for him. He put himself in the position to be number one again. For tennis it&#39;s great. He is an example that you can still improve in the age that he is&quot;. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RioOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RioOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/t7rapQiu7P">pic.twitter.com/t7rapQiu7P</a>
&mdash; Rio Open (@RioOpenOficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/RioOpenOficial/status/964606460142456833?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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Cilic has referred to Roger Federer's glory of becoming world number one as an amazing achievement

Marin Cilic praised Roger Federer for becoming the oldest world number one after defeating his opponent Robin Haase to enter the semi-final of the ABN Amro World Tennis Tournament in Rotterdam. During a press conference, Cilic said, "Now he's in that position and I think, for tennis, it is great. He further added, "The players now in the last, maybe 10 years, have pushed the border of playing a little bit longer... he shows also the example that you can still improve at the age that he is." Marin Cilic, speaking ahead of the Rio Open which begins on February 19, has referred to Roger Federer's achievement as "an amazing achievement." He said, "I believe that every player, if he has a chance, should think in that way." Cilic said his ultimate goal is to follow in Federer's footsteps and reach the top of the men's singles rankings. .@cilic_marin congratulates @rogerfederer on becoming World No.1: "It's an amazing achievement for him. He put himself in the position to be number one again. For tennis it's great. He is an example that you can still improve in the age that he is". #RioOpen pic.twitter.com/t7rapQiu7P — Rio Open (@RioOpenOficial) February 16, 2018 ×

Ultimate goal is to follow Federer's footsteps: Marin Cilic

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/magnitude-75-quake-hits-mexico-buildings-sway-in-capital-33121">Magnitude 7.2 quake hits Mexico, buildings sway in capital</a>

A 7.2 magnitude quake shook southern Mexico on Friday, a prolonged rumble that rocked buildings across the capital Mexico City.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-indicts-13-russian-nationals-in-2016-us-election-tampering-to-boost-donald-trump-33119">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-indicts-13-russian-nationals-in-2016-us-election-tampering-to-boost-donald-trump-33119"> charges 13 Russians with 2016 presidential election tampering to boost Donald Trump</a>

A Russian propaganda arm oversaw a criminal and espionage conspiracy to tamper in the 2016 US&nbsp;presidential campaign to support Donald Trump and disparage Hillary Clinton, said an indictment released on Friday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-pm-plans-reshuffle-in-wake-of-local-election-drubbing-33135">Sri Lanka Prime Minister plans reshuffle in wake of local election drubbing</a>

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said on Friday he planned to stay in office and reshuffle his cabinet in the wake of a stinging loss in local elections for both parties in the ruling coalition.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/ethiopia-declares-state-of-emergency-after-pm-resigns-33125">Ethiopia declares state of emergency after PM resigns</a>

Ethiopia declared a state of emergency on Friday, a move capping a tumultuous week that saw the prime minister resign, a strike in the country`s largest region and a massive prisoner amnesty.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-accends-number-one-rank-33132">Roger Federer becomes </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-accends-number-one-rank-33132">oldest</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-accends-number-one-rank-33132"> world No 1 in tennis history</a>

Roger Federer became the oldest world number one on Friday as he defeated his opponent to enter the semi-final of the ABN Amro World Tennis Tournament in Rotterdam.

Magnitude 7.2 quake hits Mexico, buildings sway in capital A 7.2 magnitude quake shook southern Mexico on Friday, a prolonged rumble that rocked buildings across the capital Mexico City. US charges 13 Russians with 2016 presidential election tampering to boost Donald Trump A Russian propaganda arm oversaw a criminal and espionage conspiracy to tamper in the 2016 US presidential campaign to support Donald Trump and disparage Hillary Clinton, said an indictment released on Friday. Sri Lanka Prime Minister plans reshuffle in wake of local election drubbing Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said on Friday he planned to stay in office and reshuffle his cabinet in the wake of a stinging loss in local elections for both parties in the ruling coalition. Ethiopia declares state of emergency after PM resigns Ethiopia declared a state of emergency on Friday, a move capping a tumultuous week that saw the prime minister resign, a strike in the country`s largest region and a massive prisoner amnesty. Roger Federer becomes oldest world No 1 in tennis history Roger Federer became the oldest world number one on Friday as he defeated his opponent to enter the semi-final of the ABN Amro World Tennis Tournament in Rotterdam.

WION Morning News Brief, February 17, 2018

Roger Federer became the oldest world number one on Friday as he defeated his opponent to enter the semi-final of the ABN Amro World Tennis Tournament in Rotterdam.

Roger Federer had entered the&nbsp;quarter-final after defeating&nbsp;Germany&#39;s Philipp Kohlschreiber and clashed the former number one Dutchman Robin Haase.

The 36-year-old Swiss overcame an early setback to beat Robin Haase of the Netherlands 4-6, 6-1, 6-1 and will replace old rival Rafael Nadal at the top of the rankings.

He shared a hilarious post on twitter&nbsp;after regaining the glory, &quot;Apparently I&#39;m the oldest tennis player with a <a data-query-source="hashtag_click" dir="ltr" href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/1%EF%B8%8F%E2%83%A3?src=hash"><s>#</s>1️⃣</a> ranking. Somebody might have mentioned that to me already but I had a hard time hearing.&quot;

Here is what is tweeted after reaching number one spot.

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Apparently I&#39;m the oldest tennis player with a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/1%EF%B8%8F%E2%83%A3?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#1️⃣</a> ranking. Somebody might have mentioned that to me already but I had a hard time hearing ????????
&mdash; Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer/status/964645219760201728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&quot;What an amazing run it&#39;s been, to be number one again means a lot to me,&quot; Federer said.

&quot;This is incredibly special, I&#39;m so happy. I didn&#39;t really think I could get back to number one, this is a significant moment in my career.&quot;

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It&#39;s been a long road, and sometimes windy, but feels surreal to be back at the top. I&#39;m just happy to be healthy and playing tennis every day ????????????????
&mdash; Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer/status/964664653107249153?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Federer surpasses Andre Agassi, who held the top spot aged 33 years and 131 days in 2003, as the oldest man to claim the world number one spot.

It is Federer&#39;s first time back at the summit since October 2012 having first claimed the top position in February 2004.

&quot;Reaching number one is the ultimate achievement in tennis. When you&#39;re older you have to work double the amount, you have to wrestle it back from someone who&#39;s also worked hard to get there. It&#39;s a dream come true,&quot; added an emotional Federer.

&quot;It&#39;s been an amazing journey and to clinch it here, where I got my first wildcard in 1998, means so much.&quot;

36-year-old Federer is back on top after winning three majors in 13 months, including another Australian Open in January

Roger Federer became the oldest world number one on Friday as he defeated his opponent to enter the semi-final of the ABN Amro World Tennis Tournament in Rotterdam. Roger Federer had entered the quarter-final after defeating Germany's Philipp Kohlschreiber and clashed the former number one Dutchman Robin Haase. The 36-year-old Swiss overcame an early setback to beat Robin Haase of the Netherlands 4-6, 6-1, 6-1 and will replace old rival Rafael Nadal at the top of the rankings. He shared a hilarious post on twitter after regaining the glory, "Apparently I'm the oldest tennis player with a #1️⃣ ranking. Somebody might have mentioned that to me already but I had a hard time hearing." Here is what is tweeted after reaching number one spot. Apparently I'm the oldest tennis player with a #1️⃣ ranking. Somebody might have mentioned that to me already but I had a hard time hearing ???????? — Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) February 16, 2018 × "What an amazing run it's been, to be number one again means a lot to me," Federer said. "This is incredibly special, I'm so happy. I didn't really think I could get back to number one, this is a significant moment in my career." It's been a long road, and sometimes windy, but feels surreal to be back at the top. I'm just happy to be healthy and playing tennis every day ???????????????? — Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) February 17, 2018 × Federer surpasses Andre Agassi, who held the top spot aged 33 years and 131 days in 2003, as the oldest man to claim the world number one spot. It is Federer's first time back at the summit since October 2012 having first claimed the top position in February 2004. "Reaching number one is the ultimate achievement in tennis. When you're older you have to work double the amount, you have to wrestle it back from someone who's also worked hard to get there. It's a dream come true," added an emotional Federer. "It's been an amazing journey and to clinch it here, where I got my first wildcard in 1998, means so much."

Roger Federer becomes oldest world No 1 in tennis history

Roger Federer has entered the&nbsp;quarter-final after defeating&nbsp;Germany&#39;s Philipp Kohlschreiber in the last 16 on Thursday - winning 7-6(8), 7-5 in an hour and 42 minutes.

The former number one will face&nbsp;Dutchman Robin Haase&nbsp;at the ABN Amro World Tennis Tournament in Rotterdam.

If he wins then he will become the oldest player ever to be ranked world number one.

The 36-year-old Swiss will overtake Rafael Nadal at the top if he beats Robin Haase in the last eight.

But the reigning Wimbledon and Australian Open champion to regain the world rank one.

The Swiss is excited about the possibility of returning to the top of the rankings 19 years after he played Rotterdam in 1999 on his first career wild card.

&quot;I never imagined this after my (February 2016) knee surgery. Number one is a tough place to get to.

&quot;The most important thing is to be healthy, I would have had great regrets if I had not come here this week. I&#39;m very excited for tomorrow&#39;s match, I can&#39;t wait for it to come around, Federer&nbsp;said in an interview.&quot;

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Quite interesting????<a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rogerfederer</a> finds out that while he is having a shot at No.1 in Rotterdam, <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> is in The Netherlands as well ????????. 
 
Federer to the press: &quot;He should come around. I&#39;m lonely. My family is not here.&quot; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/abnamrowtt?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#abnamrowtt</a> <a href="https://t.co/cq1vctRouE">pic.twitter.com/cq1vctRouE</a>
&mdash; ABN AMRO WTT (@abnamrowtt) <a href="https://twitter.com/abnamrowtt/status/964248732375056385?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Roger Federer has entered the quarter-final of ABN Amro World Tennis Tournament, If he wins then he will become the oldest player ever to be ranked world number one

Roger Federer has entered the quarter-final after defeating Germany's Philipp Kohlschreiber in the last 16 on Thursday - winning 7-6(8), 7-5 in an hour and 42 minutes. The former number one will face Dutchman Robin Haase at the ABN Amro World Tennis Tournament in Rotterdam. If he wins then he will become the oldest player ever to be ranked world number one. The 36-year-old Swiss will overtake Rafael Nadal at the top if he beats Robin Haase in the last eight. But the reigning Wimbledon and Australian Open champion to regain the world rank one. The Swiss is excited about the possibility of returning to the top of the rankings 19 years after he played Rotterdam in 1999 on his first career wild card. "I never imagined this after my (February 2016) knee surgery. Number one is a tough place to get to. "The most important thing is to be healthy, I would have had great regrets if I had not come here this week. I'm very excited for tomorrow's match, I can't wait for it to come around, Federer said in an interview." Quite interesting????@rogerfederer finds out that while he is having a shot at No.1 in Rotterdam, @RafaelNadal is in The Netherlands as well ????????. Federer to the press: "He should come around. I'm lonely. My family is not here." #abnamrowtt pic.twitter.com/cq1vctRouE — ABN AMRO WTT (@abnamrowtt) February 15, 2018 ×

Roger Federer eyes number one spot

Switzerland&#39;s Roger Federer claimed a record-equalling sixth Australian Open title with a 6-2 6-7(5) 6-3 3-6 6-1 victory over Croatia&#39;s Marin Cilic on Sunday.

The 36-year-old defending champion won the opening set in 24 minutes under the Rod Laver Arena roof before Cilic, playing his first final in Melbourne, found his range with a barrage of big hitting to drag the showpiece match into a deciding set.

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Roger Federer captures his 20th Grand Slam title beating Marin Cilic 6-2 6-7(5) 6-3 3-6 6-1 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> (File pic) <a href="https://t.co/RwuirXLlfX">pic.twitter.com/RwuirXLlfX</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/957579092924051457?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Federer looked vulnerable at the start of the deciding set but once he fought off a break point in the first game he re-established control and surged to his 20th grand slam title.

The roof was closed over Rod Laver Arena as the tournament`s heat policy was implemented amid evening temperatures of 38 Celsius (100 Fahrenheit).

Cilic`s serve came under immediate pressure with a whipping backhand return winner for break point which the Croatian followed with a smash into the net for a break in the opening game.

The Croat was finding it difficult to settle and changed racquets in his second service game, but it had no obvious benefit as he dropped serve again after three break points to trail 0-3.

He finally held serve to get on to the board and trail 4-1 with Federer hitting the ball cleanly.

The Swiss star served out the first set in just 24 minutes after a double break and a shaky Cilic opening.

Federer, playing in his 30th Grand Slam final, joined Novak Djokovic and Australian great Roy Emerson as joint top for the most Australian Open men`s titles.

The 36-year-old defending champion won the opening set in 24 minutes

Switzerland's Roger Federer claimed a record-equalling sixth Australian Open title with a 6-2 6-7(5) 6-3 3-6 6-1 victory over Croatia's Marin Cilic on Sunday. The 36-year-old defending champion won the opening set in 24 minutes under the Rod Laver Arena roof before Cilic, playing his first final in Melbourne, found his range with a barrage of big hitting to drag the showpiece match into a deciding set. Roger Federer captures his 20th Grand Slam title beating Marin Cilic 6-2 6-7(5) 6-3 3-6 6-1 #AusOpen (File pic) pic.twitter.com/RwuirXLlfX — ANI (@ANI) January 28, 2018 × Federer looked vulnerable at the start of the deciding set but once he fought off a break point in the first game he re-established control and surged to his 20th grand slam title. The roof was closed over Rod Laver Arena as the tournament`s heat policy was implemented amid evening temperatures of 38 Celsius (100 Fahrenheit). Cilic`s serve came under immediate pressure with a whipping backhand return winner for break point which the Croatian followed with a smash into the net for a break in the opening game. The Croat was finding it difficult to settle and changed racquets in his second service game, but it had no obvious benefit as he dropped serve again after three break points to trail 0-3. He finally held serve to get on to the board and trail 4-1 with Federer hitting the ball cleanly. The Swiss star served out the first set in just 24 minutes after a double break and a shaky Cilic opening. Federer, playing in his 30th Grand Slam final, joined Novak Djokovic and Australian great Roy Emerson as joint top for the most Australian Open men`s titles.

Roger Federer wins Australian Open 2018 Men's Singles

Roger Federer d&nbsp;Richard Gasquet, 6-2, 7-5, 6-4

Defending champion Federer&nbsp;defeated Richard Gasquet, 6-2, 7-5, 6-4 to reach the round of 16 on Saturday at Rod Laver Arena.

&quot;I was able to stay more on the offensive than he was and maybe I was protecting my own serve better than him,&quot; Federer said.

&quot;I was hoping I could play at that level. I&#39;m very happy that I was able to rise to a level that I needed to beat Richard.

&quot;It was tough. The score shows it, as well. I could have done it maybe a bit faster.

&quot;I&rsquo;m coming in this year very fit, very well-equipped.&quot;

&quot;At the same time, I&#39;m happy to have done it the way it happened. I was pleased. I think I had some good shots. I was happy the way I played. I also thought we both played a good level again, so it was fun,&quot; he added.

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9️⃣0️⃣ match wins and counting!<a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rogerfederer</a> notches up his 90th match victory at Melbourne Park d 29th seed Richard <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gasquet?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gasquet</a> 6-2 7-5 6-4.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/wo83nX7u1K">pic.twitter.com/wo83nX7u1K</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/954686257971437568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-simona-survives-an-epic-rally-beats-lauren-davis-4-6-6-4-15-13-30125" target="_blank">Australian Open: Simona survives epic rally, beats Lauren Davis 4-6, 6-4, 15-13</a>

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<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-hyeon-chung-beats-alexander-zverev-enters-r16-30148" target="_blank">Australian Open: Hyeon Chung beats Alexander Zverev, enters R16</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-angelique-kerber-outplays-maria-sharapova-to-reach-r16-30149" target="_blank">Australian Open: Angelique Kerber outplays Maria Sharapova to reach R16</a>

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The Swiss legend broke Gasquet&#39;s serve five times and hit 42 winners with 30 unforced errors.

&quot;I like to see the way he saved match point. The first one was a backhand down the line,&quot; Federer said of Gasquet late resistance.

&quot;Feels like he can do that in his sleep. I admire that. I take pleasure out of him making that shot even though for a second I thought that this could have been the match point I had and end up losing the match.&quot;

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Roger that indeed ????????<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/i1WtMxFkuQ">pic.twitter.com/i1WtMxFkuQ</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/954687033586302976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&quot;I started as a kid with a double-handed backhand and then let go. That left-hand is just decoration right now,&quot; he shared.

&nbsp;

The Swiss legend Roger Federer defeated Richard Gasquet of France, 6-2, 7-5, 6-4

Roger Federer d Richard Gasquet, 6-2, 7-5, 6-4 Defending champion Federer defeated Richard Gasquet, 6-2, 7-5, 6-4 to reach the round of 16 on Saturday at Rod Laver Arena. "I was able to stay more on the offensive than he was and maybe I was protecting my own serve better than him," Federer said. "I was hoping I could play at that level. I'm very happy that I was able to rise to a level that I needed to beat Richard. "It was tough. The score shows it, as well. I could have done it maybe a bit faster. "I’m coming in this year very fit, very well-equipped." "At the same time, I'm happy to have done it the way it happened. I was pleased. I think I had some good shots. I was happy the way I played. I also thought we both played a good level again, so it was fun," he added. 9️⃣0️⃣ match wins and counting!@rogerfederer notches up his 90th match victory at Melbourne Park d 29th seed Richard #Gasquet 6-2 7-5 6-4.#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/wo83nX7u1K — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 20, 2018 × Australian Open: Simona survives epic rally, beats Lauren Davis 4-6, 6-4, 15-13 Australian Open: Karolina Pliskova & Madison Keys enter fourth round Australian Open: Hyeon Chung beats Alexander Zverev, enters R16 Australian Open: Angelique Kerber outplays Maria Sharapova to reach R16 Australian Open: Tomas Berdych rallies past Del Potro to reach last 16 The Swiss legend broke Gasquet's serve five times and hit 42 winners with 30 unforced errors. "I like to see the way he saved match point. The first one was a backhand down the line," Federer said of Gasquet late resistance. "Feels like he can do that in his sleep. I admire that. I take pleasure out of him making that shot even though for a second I thought that this could have been the match point I had and end up losing the match." Roger that indeed ????????#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/i1WtMxFkuQ — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 20, 2018 × "I started as a kid with a double-handed backhand and then let go. That left-hand is just decoration right now," he shared.

Australian Open: Defending champion Roger Federer races into R16

Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal might be arch-rivals on the court but off it they are good friends and the compassionate Swiss star has been worried about the injured world number one.

The gutted Spaniard was <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-nadal-retires-in-fifth-set-cilic-in-semi-final-30517" target="_blank">forced to retire</a> with a hip problem early in the fifth set of his Australian Open quarter-final against sixth seed Marin Cilic on Tuesday.

It deprived the opening Grand Slam of the year of a potential rematch of the vintage 2017 final where Federer beat Nadal in a heart-stopping five-setter.

Federer said it hard to see Nadal&#39;s campaign end that way and the last thing he did before falling asleep on Tuesday evening ahead of his own quarter-final against Tomas Berdych was reach out to his friend.

&quot;It&#39;s hard to watch someone go out in five sets and not being able to finish,&quot; he said of seeing Nadal struggle.

&quot;I wrote Rafa late last night (Tuesday) before I went to bed. Last thing I did. I said I have to write Rafa and see how he&#39;s doing.

&quot;I was hoping he was going to be OK with the scan, hoping the news was not terrible.

&quot;It was not nice to see a fellow rival and friend like this go out. Wish him well,&quot; he added of the 16-time Grand Slam champion.

Fortunately for Nadal, a scan showed only a torn inner hip muscle and not something more serious, and he is expected to be back in action in three to four weeks.

Federer&#39;s selflessness was hailed by former star James Blake, who said the Swiss maestro was the only player who wrote to him when he suffered a serious injury in 2004.

&quot;I got one note from a player in the hospital when I broke my neck. Roger Federer. Tennis is lucky to have such an amazing ambassador for the game,&quot; the American tweeted.

Federer plays fast-rising South Korean Chung Hyeon on Friday for a place in the Melbourne Park final as he chases a 20th Grand Slam title.

The gutted Spaniard was forced to retire with a hip problem early in the fifth set of his Australian Open quarter-final against sixth seed Marin Cilic on Tuesday

Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal might be arch-rivals on the court but off it they are good friends and the compassionate Swiss star has been worried about the injured world number one. The gutted Spaniard was forced to retire with a hip problem early in the fifth set of his Australian Open quarter-final against sixth seed Marin Cilic on Tuesday. It deprived the opening Grand Slam of the year of a potential rematch of the vintage 2017 final where Federer beat Nadal in a heart-stopping five-setter. Federer said it hard to see Nadal's campaign end that way and the last thing he did before falling asleep on Tuesday evening ahead of his own quarter-final against Tomas Berdych was reach out to his friend. "It's hard to watch someone go out in five sets and not being able to finish," he said of seeing Nadal struggle. "I wrote Rafa late last night (Tuesday) before I went to bed. Last thing I did. I said I have to write Rafa and see how he's doing. "I was hoping he was going to be OK with the scan, hoping the news was not terrible. "It was not nice to see a fellow rival and friend like this go out. Wish him well," he added of the 16-time Grand Slam champion. Fortunately for Nadal, a scan showed only a torn inner hip muscle and not something more serious, and he is expected to be back in action in three to four weeks. Federer's selflessness was hailed by former star James Blake, who said the Swiss maestro was the only player who wrote to him when he suffered a serious injury in 2004. "I got one note from a player in the hospital when I broke my neck. Roger Federer. Tennis is lucky to have such an amazing ambassador for the game," the American tweeted. Federer plays fast-rising South Korean Chung Hyeon on Friday for a place in the Melbourne Park final as he chases a 20th Grand Slam title.

Federer wishes 'friend' Rafa speedy recovery

Australian Open men&#39;s final facts and figures ahead of Sunday&#39;s match (x denotes seeding):

Roger Federer (SUI x2) v Marin Cilic (CRO x6)

Head-to-head: Federer leads 8-1 (year, tournament, surface, round, winner, score):

2017 &nbsp;ATP Finals &nbsp;Hard &nbsp;&nbsp;RR &nbsp;&nbsp;Federer &nbsp;&nbsp;6-7 (5/7), 6-4, 6-1

2017 &nbsp;Wimbledon &nbsp;&nbsp;Grass &nbsp;F &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Federer &nbsp;&nbsp;6-3, 6-1, 6-4

2016 &nbsp;Wimbledon &nbsp; Grass &nbsp;QF &nbsp; Federer &nbsp;&nbsp;6-7 (4/7), 4-6, 6-3, 7-6 (11/9), 6-3

2014 &nbsp;US Open &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Hard &nbsp;&nbsp;SF &nbsp; Cilic &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6-3, 6-4, 6-4

2014 &nbsp;Toronto &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hard &nbsp;&nbsp;R16 &nbsp;Federer &nbsp;&nbsp;7-6 (7/5),&nbsp;6-7 (3/7),&nbsp;6-4&nbsp;

2012 &nbsp;Shanghai &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hard &nbsp;&nbsp;QF &nbsp; Federer &nbsp;&nbsp;6-3,&nbsp;6-4&nbsp;

2011 &nbsp;US Open &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hard &nbsp;&nbsp;R32 &nbsp;Federer &nbsp;&nbsp;6-3,&nbsp;4-6,&nbsp;6-4,&nbsp;6-2&nbsp;

2011 &nbsp;Monte Carlo Clay &nbsp;&nbsp;R16 &nbsp;Federer &nbsp;&nbsp;6-4,&nbsp;6-3&nbsp;

2008 &nbsp;Paris&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hard &nbsp;&nbsp;R16 &nbsp;Federer &nbsp;&nbsp;6-3,&nbsp;6-4

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May the best man win! ???? 
 
Cool pic, <a href="https://twitter.com/cilic_marin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cilic_marin</a>! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/xqNlE5Zkyz">pic.twitter.com/xqNlE5Zkyz</a>
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Fast&nbsp;facts

Federer: Age - 36; World ranking - 2; Prize money - $111,885,682; Career titles - 95; Grand Slam titles - 19;&nbsp;Australian Open&nbsp;best - Winner (2004, 2006, 2007, 2010, 2017)

Penpix

Federer is aiming to add to his five&nbsp;Australian Open&nbsp;titles and in the process win a record 20th Grand Slam. It will be his seventh decider at Melbourne Park, a feat no one else has achieved. The Swiss great began his year at the Hopman Cup and won all four of his singles matches, putting him on a 10-match unbeaten streak. He will be the third oldest man to contest the Melbourne Park final and has extended his record for most Grand Slam final appearances to 30. Rafael Nadal is next on 23.

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Game on: It&#39;s Cilic v Federer. 
 
You ready?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/byUbt8iYyV">pic.twitter.com/byUbt8iYyV</a>
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Fast&nbsp;facts 

Cilic: Age - 29; World ranking - 6; Prize money - $20,944,791; Career titles - 17; Grand Slam titles - 1;&nbsp;Australian Open&nbsp;best - Final (2018)

Penpix

The towering Croat, one of the tallest men on tour at 6 feet 6 inches, won his first major title at the 2014 US Open, defeating Kei Nishikori in the final. He is at a career-high in the rankings and by beating Kyle Edmund in the semis will rise to number three in the world. Nicknamed &quot;Chila&quot;, he made the final at Wimbledon last year, losing to Roger Federer, and won an event in Istanbul to go with five semi-final appearances. Warmed up for the&nbsp;Australian Open&nbsp;by making the semi-finals in Pune. Previous best at Melbourne Park was the last four in 2010.

Paths to the final

Roger Federer

1st rd: bt Aljaz Bedene (SLO) 6-3, 6-4, 6-3

2nd rd: bt Jan-Lennard Struff (GER) 6-4, 6-4, 7-6 (7/4)

3rd rd: bt Richard Gasquet (FRA x29) 6-2, 7-5, 6-4

4th rd: bt Marton Fucsovics (HUN) 6-4, 7-6 (7/3), 6-2 &nbsp;

Q-F: bt Tomas Berdych (CZE x19) 7-6 (7/1), 6-3, 6-4

S-F: bt Chung Hyeon (KOR) 6-1, 5-2 ret&nbsp;

Marin Cilic

1st rd: bt Vasek Pospisil (CAN) 6-2, 6-2, 4-6, 7-6 (7/5)

2nd rd: bt Joao Sousa (POR) 6-1, 7-5, 6-2

3rd rd: bt Ryan Harrison (USA) 7-6 (7/4), 6-3, 7-6 (7/4)

4th rd: bt Pablo Carreno Busta (ESP x10) 6/7 (2/7), 6-3, 7-6 (7/0), 6-3

Q-F: bt Rafael Nadal (ESP x1) 3-6, 6-3, 6-7 (5/7), 6-2, 2-0 ret&nbsp;

S-F: bt Kyle Edmund (GBR) 6-2, 7-6 (7/4), 6-2

&nbsp;

Federer is aiming to add to his five Australian Open titles and in the process win a record 20th Grand Slam

Australian Open men's final facts and figures ahead of Sunday's match (x denotes seeding): Roger Federer (SUI x2) v Marin Cilic (CRO x6) Head-to-head: Federer leads 8-1 (year, tournament, surface, round, winner, score): 2017 ATP Finals Hard RR Federer 6-7 (5/7), 6-4, 6-1 2017 Wimbledon Grass F Federer 6-3, 6-1, 6-4 2016 Wimbledon Grass QF Federer 6-7 (4/7), 4-6, 6-3, 7-6 (11/9), 6-3 2014 US Open Hard SF Cilic 6-3, 6-4, 6-4 2014 Toronto Hard R16 Federer 7-6 (7/5), 6-7 (3/7), 6-4 2012 Shanghai Hard QF Federer 6-3, 6-4 2011 US Open Hard R32 Federer 6-3, 4-6, 6-4, 6-2 2011 Monte Carlo Clay R16 Federer 6-4, 6-3 2008 Paris Hard R16 Federer 6-3, 6-4 May the best man win! ???? Cool pic, @cilic_marin! #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/xqNlE5Zkyz — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 28, 2018 × Fast facts Federer: Age - 36; World ranking - 2; Prize money - $111,885,682; Career titles - 95; Grand Slam titles - 19; Australian Open best - Winner (2004, 2006, 2007, 2010, 2017) Penpix Federer is aiming to add to his five Australian Open titles and in the process win a record 20th Grand Slam. It will be his seventh decider at Melbourne Park, a feat no one else has achieved. The Swiss great began his year at the Hopman Cup and won all four of his singles matches, putting him on a 10-match unbeaten streak. He will be the third oldest man to contest the Melbourne Park final and has extended his record for most Grand Slam final appearances to 30. Rafael Nadal is next on 23. Game on: It's Cilic v Federer. You ready?#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/byUbt8iYyV — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 28, 2018 × Fast facts Cilic: Age - 29; World ranking - 6; Prize money - $20,944,791; Career titles - 17; Grand Slam titles - 1; Australian Open best - Final (2018) Penpix The towering Croat, one of the tallest men on tour at 6 feet 6 inches, won his first major title at the 2014 US Open, defeating Kei Nishikori in the final. He is at a career-high in the rankings and by beating Kyle Edmund in the semis will rise to number three in the world. Nicknamed "Chila", he made the final at Wimbledon last year, losing to Roger Federer, and won an event in Istanbul to go with five semi-final appearances. Warmed up for the Australian Open by making the semi-finals in Pune. Previous best at Melbourne Park was the last four in 2010. Paths to the final Roger Federer 1st rd: bt Aljaz Bedene (SLO) 6-3, 6-4, 6-3 2nd rd: bt Jan-Lennard Struff (GER) 6-4, 6-4, 7-6 (7/4) 3rd rd: bt Richard Gasquet (FRA x29) 6-2, 7-5, 6-4 4th rd: bt Marton Fucsovics (HUN) 6-4, 7-6 (7/3), 6-2 Q-F: bt Tomas Berdych (CZE x19) 7-6 (7/1), 6-3, 6-4 S-F: bt Chung Hyeon (KOR) 6-1, 5-2 ret Marin Cilic 1st rd: bt Vasek Pospisil (CAN) 6-2, 6-2, 4-6, 7-6 (7/5) 2nd rd: bt Joao Sousa (POR) 6-1, 7-5, 6-2 3rd rd: bt Ryan Harrison (USA) 7-6 (7/4), 6-3, 7-6 (7/4) 4th rd: bt Pablo Carreno Busta (ESP x10) 6/7 (2/7), 6-3, 7-6 (7/0), 6-3 Q-F: bt Rafael Nadal (ESP x1) 3-6, 6-3, 6-7 (5/7), 6-2, 2-0 ret S-F: bt Kyle Edmund (GBR) 6-2, 7-6 (7/4), 6-2

Australian Open: Match facts of men's final, Roger Federer vs Marin Cilic

World number two Roger Federer and Serbian tennis maestro Novak Djokovic will aim to book their place in the pre-quarterfinals of the Australian Open when they play their respective third rounds of the men`s singles event here on Saturday.

While Federer will take on 29th seed Richard Gasquet of France, Djokovic will square off with 21st seed Albert Ramos Vinolas of Spain.

Earlier, 19-time Grand Slam champion Federer stormed into the third round of the first major of the season after defeating Germany`s Jan-Lennard Struff in straight sets at the Melbourne Park.

The reigning Australia Open winner swept aside Struff 6-4, 6-4, 7-6 in their last-64 clash.

Former world number one Djokovic, on the other hand, survived an early scare from France`s Gael Monfils to storm into the round of 32 of the season-opening Grand Slam for the 11th time.

The 14th seed, who is bidding to clinch his sixth Australian Open title, went down in the first set, but he rebounded strongly to eventually outplay Monfils 4-6, 6-3, 6-1, 6-3 in a thrilling second-round clash at the Melbourne Park.

On Tuesday, Djokovic played his first match since he was forced to retire during his Wimbledon quarter-final clash against Czech Republic`s Tomas Berdych.

The Serbian tennis maestro showed no signs of the elbow injury that cut short his 2017 season as he eased past Young 6-1, 6-2, 6-4 in a one-sided opening round clash of the men`s singles event that lasted one hour and 51 minutes at the Margaret Court Arena.

The reigning Australia Open winner swept aside Struff 6-4, 6-4, 7-6 in their last-64 clash.

World number two Roger Federer and Serbian tennis maestro Novak Djokovic will aim to book their place in the pre-quarterfinals of the Australian Open when they play their respective third rounds of the men`s singles event here on Saturday. While Federer will take on 29th seed Richard Gasquet of France, Djokovic will square off with 21st seed Albert Ramos Vinolas of Spain. Earlier, 19-time Grand Slam champion Federer stormed into the third round of the first major of the season after defeating Germany`s Jan-Lennard Struff in straight sets at the Melbourne Park. The reigning Australia Open winner swept aside Struff 6-4, 6-4, 7-6 in their last-64 clash. Former world number one Djokovic, on the other hand, survived an early scare from France`s Gael Monfils to storm into the round of 32 of the season-opening Grand Slam for the 11th time. The 14th seed, who is bidding to clinch his sixth Australian Open title, went down in the first set, but he rebounded strongly to eventually outplay Monfils 4-6, 6-3, 6-1, 6-3 in a thrilling second-round clash at the Melbourne Park. On Tuesday, Djokovic played his first match since he was forced to retire during his Wimbledon quarter-final clash against Czech Republic`s Tomas Berdych. The Serbian tennis maestro showed no signs of the elbow injury that cut short his 2017 season as he eased past Young 6-1, 6-2, 6-4 in a one-sided opening round clash of the men`s singles event that lasted one hour and 51 minutes at the Margaret Court Arena.

Australian Open: Federer, Djokovic eye pre-quarterfinal berths

Yesterday, Nadal&#39;s ouster was quite a shocker for Australian Open fans and spectators.

The Spanish world No.1 was struggling with a muscle injury in his upper right leg and that became the major reason for his&nbsp;exit playing against&nbsp;Marin Cilic the quarter-final on Rod Laver Arena.

On Wednesday, world number one&nbsp;Roger Federer and Simona Halep will rally to reach the semi-finals.&nbsp;Whereas, one&nbsp;unseeded player will make the Australian Open semi-finals in the men singles.

Determined&nbsp;Halep is carrying a painful ankle injury as she takes&nbsp;on Czech sixth seed Karolina Pliskova.

&quot;It is going to be a new match. You never know what&#39;s going to happen,&quot; Halep said after her tiring run to the last eight.

Giantkillers Chung Hyeon and Tennys Sandgren face off in a last-eight showdown no one expected on Rod Laver Arena, with Federer lining up against old foe Tomas Berdych in the evening.

&quot;I&#39;m looking forward to playing against him. He seems in good shape and I&#39;m happy he&#39;s over the back issues that he also had at the end of last year,&quot; said Federer, who is targeting a 20th Grand Slam title.

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As cool as they come. 
 
It&#39;s all business for Chung as he takes the first set on <a href="https://twitter.com/RodLaverArena?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RodLaverArena</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/kRhZKLhR3a">pic.twitter.com/kRhZKLhR3a</a>
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Semifinal smiles for <a href="https://twitter.com/kyle8edmund?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kyle8edmund</a> ????<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/4rwkduZEqB">pic.twitter.com/4rwkduZEqB</a>
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&nbsp;

Giantkillers Chung Hyeon and Tennys Sandgren face off in a last-eight showdown no one expected on Rod Laver Arena

Yesterday, Nadal's ouster was quite a shocker for Australian Open fans and spectators. The Spanish world No.1 was struggling with a muscle injury in his upper right leg and that became the major reason for his exit playing against Marin Cilic the quarter-final on Rod Laver Arena. On Wednesday, world number one Roger Federer and Simona Halep will rally to reach the semi-finals. Whereas, one unseeded player will make the Australian Open semi-finals in the men singles. Determined Halep is carrying a painful ankle injury as she takes on Czech sixth seed Karolina Pliskova. "It is going to be a new match. You never know what's going to happen," Halep said after her tiring run to the last eight. Giantkillers Chung Hyeon and Tennys Sandgren face off in a last-eight showdown no one expected on Rod Laver Arena, with Federer lining up against old foe Tomas Berdych in the evening. "I'm looking forward to playing against him. He seems in good shape and I'm happy he's over the back issues that he also had at the end of last year," said Federer, who is targeting a 20th Grand Slam title. As cool as they come. It's all business for Chung as he takes the first set on @RodLaverArena. #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/kRhZKLhR3a — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 24, 2018 × Semifinal smiles for @kyle8edmund ????#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/4rwkduZEqB — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 24, 2018 ×

Australian Open: Chung Hyeon, Tennys Sandgren, Federer, Halep, Pliskova Berdych target semis

Roger Federer v Tomas Berdych

Federer&nbsp;is looking forward to booking a berth in the semi-final of Australian Open. He is set ready to face Tomas Berdych.

&quot;I&#39;m looking forward to playing against him. He seems in good shape and I&#39;m happy he&#39;s over the back issues that he also had at the end of last year,&quot; said Federer, who is targeting a 20th Grand Slam title.

Unseeded Chung Hyeon has already reached the semi-final at a Grand Slam with a dominant straight-sets win over American Tennys Sandgren and will face either defending champion Roger Federer or Tomas Berdych in Friday&#39;s semi-final.&nbsp;

Here are match facts:

Head-to-heads: Federer leads 19-6

Fast&nbsp;facts

Federer: Age - 36; World ranking - 2; Prize money - $111,885,682; Career titles - 95; Grand Slam titles - 19;&nbsp;Australian Open&nbsp;best - Winner (2004, 2006, 2007, 2010, 2017)

Berdych: Age - 32; World ranking - 20; Prize money - $28,232,533; Career titles - 13; Grand Slam titles - 0;&nbsp;Australian Open&nbsp;best - Semi-final (2014, 2015)

Path to quarter-final

Federer

1st rd: bt Aljaz Bedene (SLO) 6-3, 6-4, 6-3

2nd rd: bt Jan-Lennard Struff (GER) 6-4, 6-4, 7-6 (7/4)

3rd rd: bt Richard Gasquet (FRA x29) 6-2, 7-5, 6-4

4th rd: bt Marton Fucsovics (HUN) 6-4, 7-6 (7/3), 6-2 &nbsp;

Berdych

1st rd: bt Alex de Minaur (AUS) 6-3, 3-6, 6-0, 6-1

2nd rd: bt Guillermo Garcia-Lopez (ESP) 6-3, 2-6, 6-2, 6-3

3rd rd: bt Juan Martin Del Potro (ARG x12) 6-3, 6-3, 6-2

4th rd: bt Fabio Fognini (ITA x25) 6-1, 6-4, 6-4

&nbsp;

Unseeded Chung Hyeon has already reached the semi-final and will face either defending champion Roger Federer or Tomas Berdych in Friday's semi-final

Roger Federer v Tomas Berdych Federer is looking forward to booking a berth in the semi-final of Australian Open. He is set ready to face Tomas Berdych. "I'm looking forward to playing against him. He seems in good shape and I'm happy he's over the back issues that he also had at the end of last year," said Federer, who is targeting a 20th Grand Slam title. Unseeded Chung Hyeon has already reached the semi-final at a Grand Slam with a dominant straight-sets win over American Tennys Sandgren and will face either defending champion Roger Federer or Tomas Berdych in Friday's semi-final. Here are match facts: Head-to-heads: Federer leads 19-6 Fast facts Federer: Age - 36; World ranking - 2; Prize money - $111,885,682; Career titles - 95; Grand Slam titles - 19; Australian Open best - Winner (2004, 2006, 2007, 2010, 2017) Berdych: Age - 32; World ranking - 20; Prize money - $28,232,533; Career titles - 13; Grand Slam titles - 0; Australian Open best - Semi-final (2014, 2015) Path to quarter-final Federer 1st rd: bt Aljaz Bedene (SLO) 6-3, 6-4, 6-3 2nd rd: bt Jan-Lennard Struff (GER) 6-4, 6-4, 7-6 (7/4) 3rd rd: bt Richard Gasquet (FRA x29) 6-2, 7-5, 6-4 4th rd: bt Marton Fucsovics (HUN) 6-4, 7-6 (7/3), 6-2 Berdych 1st rd: bt Alex de Minaur (AUS) 6-3, 3-6, 6-0, 6-1 2nd rd: bt Guillermo Garcia-Lopez (ESP) 6-3, 2-6, 6-2, 6-3 3rd rd: bt Juan Martin Del Potro (ARG x12) 6-3, 6-3, 6-2 4th rd: bt Fabio Fognini (ITA x25) 6-1, 6-4, 6-4

Australian Open: Roger Federer vs Tomas Berdych, some match facts

Defending champion Roger Federer strolled into the Australian Open final in a bitter-sweet win after Chung Hyeon&#39;s retired injured in their semi-final on Friday.

The Swiss star was leading 6-1, 5-2 when the South Korean called it quits with foot blisters and will now face Marin Cilic in Sunday&#39;s final.

Chung, the first South Korean man or woman to play in a Grand Slam semi-final, was treated in a medical timeout for the left foot problem two games earlier.

But it came as a big surprise when the 21-year-old walked to the net at 30-30 and trailing 2-5 after 1hr 02mins in the second set to concede defeat.

It put Federer into his seventh Australian final as he chases his sixth Melbourne title and 20th Grand Slam victory.

Federer leads 2014 US Open champion Cilic 8-1 in their meetings.

The Swiss maestro now has a 30-13 win-loss record in Grand Slam semi-finals and has yet to drop a set in this year&#39;s Australian Open.

&quot;You couldn&#39;t tell until the end,&quot; he said of Chung&#39;s injury problems. &quot;That&#39;s probably why a lot of people are stunned (he retired).&nbsp;

&quot;I could tell something was wrong before he took the injury timeout, but he has a great composure.&nbsp;

&quot;I think he is already a great player, but we are talking next level excellence and I think he will achieve that.&nbsp;

&quot;We will see much more of him. Top 10 for sure. The rest we will see.&quot;

It was a muted semi-final with the Rod Laver Arena retractable roof closed for rain further improving Federer&#39;s chances given his indoor record.

He broke Chung&#39;s opening service and twice more to romp away with the first set in just 33 minutes as the Korean made a flurry of errors.

It got no better in the second set with Federer again breaking in the fourth game before the trainer was called on to the court to treat Chung for his foot blisters.

Chung only lasted a bit more than two games before pulling out to a stunned silence.

&quot;In the second set I felt he was starting to get a bit slower, fighting with a blister,&quot; Federer said.&nbsp;

&quot;I&#39;ve played with blisters in the past a lot, and it hurts a lot, and at one point it is just too much and you can&#39;t take it anymore.

&quot;That&#39;s when you realise there is no way you can come back and you make things really worse, it is better to stop. That&#39;s why this feels bitter-sweet.&nbsp;

&quot;Obviously I&#39;m incredibly happy to be in the finals, but not like this.&quot;

Federer broke Chung&#39;s serve four times off 11 break points and only had one break point on his own service.

The Swiss second seed hit 24 winners while Chung made 17 unforced errors in 14 games, eight of them off his normally potent forehand.

The Swiss star was leading 6-1, 5-2 when Chung called it quits with foot blisters and will face Marin Cilic in Sunday's final

Defending champion Roger Federer strolled into the Australian Open final in a bitter-sweet win after Chung Hyeon's retired injured in their semi-final on Friday. The Swiss star was leading 6-1, 5-2 when the South Korean called it quits with foot blisters and will now face Marin Cilic in Sunday's final. Chung, the first South Korean man or woman to play in a Grand Slam semi-final, was treated in a medical timeout for the left foot problem two games earlier. But it came as a big surprise when the 21-year-old walked to the net at 30-30 and trailing 2-5 after 1hr 02mins in the second set to concede defeat. It put Federer into his seventh Australian final as he chases his sixth Melbourne title and 20th Grand Slam victory. Federer leads 2014 US Open champion Cilic 8-1 in their meetings. The Swiss maestro now has a 30-13 win-loss record in Grand Slam semi-finals and has yet to drop a set in this year's Australian Open. "You couldn't tell until the end," he said of Chung's injury problems. "That's probably why a lot of people are stunned (he retired). "I could tell something was wrong before he took the injury timeout, but he has a great composure. "I think he is already a great player, but we are talking next level excellence and I think he will achieve that. "We will see much more of him. Top 10 for sure. The rest we will see." It was a muted semi-final with the Rod Laver Arena retractable roof closed for rain further improving Federer's chances given his indoor record. He broke Chung's opening service and twice more to romp away with the first set in just 33 minutes as the Korean made a flurry of errors. It got no better in the second set with Federer again breaking in the fourth game before the trainer was called on to the court to treat Chung for his foot blisters. Chung only lasted a bit more than two games before pulling out to a stunned silence. "In the second set I felt he was starting to get a bit slower, fighting with a blister," Federer said. "I've played with blisters in the past a lot, and it hurts a lot, and at one point it is just too much and you can't take it anymore. "That's when you realise there is no way you can come back and you make things really worse, it is better to stop. That's why this feels bitter-sweet. "Obviously I'm incredibly happy to be in the finals, but not like this." Federer broke Chung's serve four times off 11 break points and only had one break point on his own service. The Swiss second seed hit 24 winners while Chung made 17 unforced errors in 14 games, eight of them off his normally potent forehand.

Federer into Australian Open final as Chung retires injured

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/kabul-on-high-alert-after-ambulance-bomb-toll-tops-100-30992">Kabul on high alert after ambulance bomb toll tops 100</a>

Afghanistan Sunday declared a day of national mourning as the toll for those killed by a huge bomb hidden in an ambulance in Kabul topped 100 people and tensions remained high after insurgents struck in the city for the second time in a week.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-wins-australian-open-2018-mens-singles-30991">Roger Federer wins Australian Open 2018 Men&#39;s Singles</a>

Switzerland&#39;s Roger Federer claimed a record-equalling sixth Australian Open title with a 6-2 6-7(5) 6-3 3-6 6-1 victory over Croatia&#39;s Marin Cilic on Sunday. The 36-year-old defending champion won the opening set in 24 minutes under the Rod Laver Arena roof before Cilic, playing his first final in Melbourne, found his range with a barrage of big hitting to drag the showpiece match into a deciding set.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/five-arrested-over-kabul-intercontinental-hotel-shooting-30990">Five arrested over Kabul Intercontinental hotel shooting</a>

Local media of Afghanistan has reported the arrest of five persons in connection with the January 21 attack on the Intercontinental hotel in Kabul. At least four Taliban gunmen attacked Kabul&#39;s landmark Intercontinental Hotel on Saturday and started shooting at guests, which went on for 12 hours.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/yemen-pm-accuses-separatists-of-coup-after-hq-takeover-30986">Yemen PM accuses separatists of coup after HQ takeover</a>

Yemen&#39;s Prime Minister Ahmed bin Dagher on Sunday accused southern separatists of attempting a coup in the interim capital of Aden after they took over the government headquarters.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/anger-grows-in-kabul-after-attack-kills-nearly-100-30976">Anger grows in Kabul after attack kills 103</a>

Anger was growing in Kabul Sunday, a day after a huge bomb hidden in an ambulance killed 103 people and wounded scores more, highlighting the ability of insurgents to strike at the heart of Afghanistan. The attack, which was claimed by the Taliban, took lives of 103 people and left 235 wounded.

Kabul on high alert after ambulance bomb toll tops 100 Afghanistan Sunday declared a day of national mourning as the toll for those killed by a huge bomb hidden in an ambulance in Kabul topped 100 people and tensions remained high after insurgents struck in the city for the second time in a week. Roger Federer wins Australian Open 2018 Men's Singles Switzerland's Roger Federer claimed a record-equalling sixth Australian Open title with a 6-2 6-7(5) 6-3 3-6 6-1 victory over Croatia's Marin Cilic on Sunday. The 36-year-old defending champion won the opening set in 24 minutes under the Rod Laver Arena roof before Cilic, playing his first final in Melbourne, found his range with a barrage of big hitting to drag the showpiece match into a deciding set. Five arrested over Kabul Intercontinental hotel shooting Local media of Afghanistan has reported the arrest of five persons in connection with the January 21 attack on the Intercontinental hotel in Kabul. At least four Taliban gunmen attacked Kabul's landmark Intercontinental Hotel on Saturday and started shooting at guests, which went on for 12 hours. Yemen PM accuses separatists of coup after HQ takeover Yemen's Prime Minister Ahmed bin Dagher on Sunday accused southern separatists of attempting a coup in the interim capital of Aden after they took over the government headquarters. Anger grows in Kabul after attack kills 103 Anger was growing in Kabul Sunday, a day after a huge bomb hidden in an ambulance killed 103 people and wounded scores more, highlighting the ability of insurgents to strike at the heart of Afghanistan. The attack, which was claimed by the Taliban, took lives of 103 people and left 235 wounded.

WION Evening News Brief, January 28, 2018

Defending champion Roger Federer swept into his 14th Australian Open semi-final with an immaculate straight sets win over Tomas Berdych on Wednesday.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> : Roger Federer advances to Semi Final. <a href="https://t.co/kX7twfYaP7">pic.twitter.com/kX7twfYaP7</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/956117464164704261?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Second seed Federer cruised to a 7-6 (7/1), 6-3, 6-4 win and will face unseeded South Korean Chung Hyeon in Friday`s semi-final.

The world number two saved two set points in the opening set, but never looked back as the 19-times Grand Slam champion produced some of his very best tennis to maintain his push for a sixth title in Melbourne.

The 36-year-old Swiss is playing at the peak of his powers as he sets up a semi-final with South Korea&#39;s Chung Hyeon on Friday.

The world number two saved two set points in the opening set,

Defending champion Roger Federer swept into his 14th Australian Open semi-final with an immaculate straight sets win over Tomas Berdych on Wednesday. #AusOpen : Roger Federer advances to Semi Final. pic.twitter.com/kX7twfYaP7 — ANI (@ANI) January 24, 2018 × Second seed Federer cruised to a 7-6 (7/1), 6-3, 6-4 win and will face unseeded South Korean Chung Hyeon in Friday`s semi-final. The world number two saved two set points in the opening set, but never looked back as the 19-times Grand Slam champion produced some of his very best tennis to maintain his push for a sixth title in Melbourne. The 36-year-old Swiss is playing at the peak of his powers as he sets up a semi-final with South Korea's Chung Hyeon on Friday.

Australia Open: Roger Federer outclasses Berdych to reach semi-finals

Roger Federer reached the Australian Open quarter-finals for the 14th time on Monday but the defending champion did not have everything his own way against 80th-ranked Hungarian Marton Fucsovics.

The 36-year-old Swiss was not at his dazzling best on a sun-bathed Rod Laver Arena but claimed a 6-4 7-6(3) 6-2 to set up a quarter-final against Czech Tomas Berdych.

Fucsovics had never won a main draw grand slam match before arriving in Melbourne but after winning three rounds the 25-year-old produced a skilful and confident performance to keep second seed Federer on his toes for two sets.

There were no real alarms for the Swiss though and he raced away to victory in the third set.

&quot;I thought he played very well, it`s fast conditions so you have to have quick ideas and execute well and he did that very well,&quot; Federer said on court after his first day match of the tournament so far.

&quot;It was only when I had two sets and a break I felt like I had the wind behind my back.&quot;

Federer is the oldest man to reach the quarter-finals of the Australian Open since Ken Rosewall in 1977.

The 36-year-old claimed a 6-4 7-6(3) 6-2 to set up a quarter-final against Czech Tomas Berdych

Roger Federer reached the Australian Open quarter-finals for the 14th time on Monday but the defending champion did not have everything his own way against 80th-ranked Hungarian Marton Fucsovics. The 36-year-old Swiss was not at his dazzling best on a sun-bathed Rod Laver Arena but claimed a 6-4 7-6(3) 6-2 to set up a quarter-final against Czech Tomas Berdych. Fucsovics had never won a main draw grand slam match before arriving in Melbourne but after winning three rounds the 25-year-old produced a skilful and confident performance to keep second seed Federer on his toes for two sets. There were no real alarms for the Swiss though and he raced away to victory in the third set. "I thought he played very well, it`s fast conditions so you have to have quick ideas and execute well and he did that very well," Federer said on court after his first day match of the tournament so far. "It was only when I had two sets and a break I felt like I had the wind behind my back." Federer is the oldest man to reach the quarter-finals of the Australian Open since Ken Rosewall in 1977.

Roger Federer eases past Fucsovics into Melbourne quarter-finals

Indian tennis star Rohan Bopanna was seen practising along Swiss maestro Roger Federer ahead of the Australian Open final on Saturday.

Bopanna and Federer practiced for an hour, sharing some lighter moments as well.

Rohan Bopanna spoke to WION and recounted the experience of playing with Federer.

Bopanna believes that his practice sessions with Australian Open champion Roger Federer served as a learning experience.

&quot;One day before the singles final, Ivan Ljubicic (Federer&rsquo;s coach) asked me if I wanted to practice with Roger. I&nbsp;agreed as we don&rsquo;t get many opportunities like this,&rdquo; Bopanna said.&nbsp;

&quot;He is a true champion. What he has done is truly exceptional. He is such a great person. I know him on and off the court. It was a firm practice, a very good practice for an hour. I think I really enjoyed the practice. We were sharing laughs and keeping us relaxed,&rdquo; said Indian tennis star.

&quot;Everyone has huge respect for him.He was definitely favourite to win the Australian Open.He is someone to get very easy to get along with and winning the 20th grand slam is truly special, it shows the amount of hard work he puts in the game. It makes him really exceptional,&rdquo; he added.

Bopanna posted a footage of the session with the legend himself on his Twitter account.

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Just a relaxed Saturday afternoon hit ????????. <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rogerfederer</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/theljubicic?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@theljubicic</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/thedavidoff?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@thedavidoff</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AustralianOpen</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/tennis?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#tennis</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/melbourne?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#melbourne</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/tennislife?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#tennislife</a> <a href="https://t.co/QDk3Sbutsu">pic.twitter.com/QDk3Sbutsu</a>
&mdash; Rohan Bopanna (@rohanbopanna) <a href="https://twitter.com/rohanbopanna/status/957143649262776320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Rohan Bopanna-Timea Babos lost the Australian Open mixed doubles final 6-2, 4-6, 9-11 to Mate Pavic-Gabriela Dabrowski on Sunday.

Bopanna posted a footage of the session with the legend himself on his Twitter account

Indian tennis star Rohan Bopanna was seen practising along Swiss maestro Roger Federer ahead of the Australian Open final on Saturday. Bopanna and Federer practiced for an hour, sharing some lighter moments as well. Rohan Bopanna spoke to WION and recounted the experience of playing with Federer. Bopanna believes that his practice sessions with Australian Open champion Roger Federer served as a learning experience. "One day before the singles final, Ivan Ljubicic (Federer’s coach) asked me if I wanted to practice with Roger. I agreed as we don’t get many opportunities like this,” Bopanna said. "He is a true champion. What he has done is truly exceptional. He is such a great person. I know him on and off the court. It was a firm practice, a very good practice for an hour. I think I really enjoyed the practice. We were sharing laughs and keeping us relaxed,” said Indian tennis star. "Everyone has huge respect for him.He was definitely favourite to win the Australian Open.He is someone to get very easy to get along with and winning the 20th grand slam is truly special, it shows the amount of hard work he puts in the game. It makes him really exceptional,” he added. Bopanna posted a footage of the session with the legend himself on his Twitter account. Just a relaxed Saturday afternoon hit ????????. @rogerfederer @theljubicic @thedavidoff @AustralianOpen #tennis #melbourne #tennislife pic.twitter.com/QDk3Sbutsu — Rohan Bopanna (@rohanbopanna) January 27, 2018 × Rohan Bopanna-Timea Babos lost the Australian Open mixed doubles final 6-2, 4-6, 9-11 to Mate Pavic-Gabriela Dabrowski on Sunday.

Watch: Had a good session, shared some laughs, says Bopanna on practice session with Federer

Roger Federer continued to rewrite his remarkable script with what was previously thought an unattainable 20th Grand Slam title Sunday, and he appears to have no plans to slow down anytime soon.

The 36-year-old Swiss marvel defied the years and attrition rate to claim a joint-record sixth Australian crown in his 30th Grand Slam decider in Melbourne on Saturday, beating Croatia&#39;s Marin Cilic in five tough sets.

It put him alongside contemporary rival Novak Djokovic and Australian great Roy Emerson with the most Australian titles.

Worryingly for his opponents, the ageless star is enjoying himself as much as ever, and that inevitably means he plans to stick around for some time yet.

&quot;I&#39;m happy I&#39;m still around, still healthy, still playing good, giving myself chances, playing the best,&quot; he said last week. &quot;It&#39;s almost good fun.&quot;

Just when many people thought his Grand Slam-winning days were behind him having not won a major title since Wimbledon in 2012, Federer has now reeled off another three since his 35th birthday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-planning-melbourne-return-in-2019-31054">Roger Federer planning Melbourne return in 2019</a>

And there appears every likelihood of more to come, particularly a ninth Wimbledon crown later this year.

While he makes it look easy, it doesn&#39;t come without a tough grind behind the scenes, as Federer explained earlier in the tournament.

&quot;There&#39;s always a lot of work that goes into it during the tournament, focus, and also preparation beforehand,&quot; he said.

&quot;For many weeks and months before, you try to put yourself in the position, are you going to be ready in case a good semi-finals or quarter-finals match at the&nbsp;Australian Open, so forth.&nbsp;

&quot;This is something you sort of plan from a long time ago. That&#39;s why when it does happen, it&#39;s a great feeling.&quot;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/opinion-with-20th-grand-slam-and-counting-federer-is-immortal-31069">Opinion: With 20th Grand Slam and counting, Federer is immortal</a>

How much it means was evident with Federer in tears at the presentation ceremony on Sunday.

And all of this with two sets of twins to look after with wife Mirka -- Myla Rose and Charlene Riva and Leo and Lenny.

A fit and healthy Federer chalking up yet another major title coincided with his long-time rivals, Rafael Nadal, Djokovic, Stan Wawrinka and Andy Murray, beginning the year with injury concerns.

Record-setter

Age certainly has not wearied the Swiss master as he was the oldest man at 36 to play in the&nbsp;Australian Open&nbsp;final since Australians Ken Rosewall (37) and Mal Anderson (36) faced each in the 1972 final. &nbsp;

The result is that he stretched his lead on the all-time major-winners&#39; list to 20 -- four ahead of Nadal, six in front of Pete Sampras and eight more than Djokovic.

Only three women -- Steffi Graf (22), Serena Williams (23), and Margaret Court (24) -- have been crowned champion at more Slams.

In an endless list of records, he also holds the all-time men&#39;s record of 332 Grand Slam wins since playing his first in 1999, with career earnings of more than US$115 million.

Saturday&#39;s victory was also his 96th career title as he closes in on Jimmy Connors&#39; Open-Era mark of 109.

Federer, who spent a record 302 weeks at number one and was inside the top 10 from 2002 until 2015, saw his ranking slide to 17 -- his lowest since 2001 -- after he spent six months out in 2016 with a knee injury.

But it has been all upside since last year&#39;s classic five-set final win over Nadal at the&nbsp;Australian Open.&nbsp;

Despite his latest endeavour, Federer will remain world No.2 behind Nadal -- for now.

&nbsp;

In an endless list of records, he also holds the all-time men's record of 332 Grand Slam wins since playing his first in 1999

Roger Federer continued to rewrite his remarkable script with what was previously thought an unattainable 20th Grand Slam title Sunday, and he appears to have no plans to slow down anytime soon. The 36-year-old Swiss marvel defied the years and attrition rate to claim a joint-record sixth Australian crown in his 30th Grand Slam decider in Melbourne on Saturday, beating Croatia's Marin Cilic in five tough sets. It put him alongside contemporary rival Novak Djokovic and Australian great Roy Emerson with the most Australian titles. Worryingly for his opponents, the ageless star is enjoying himself as much as ever, and that inevitably means he plans to stick around for some time yet. "I'm happy I'm still around, still healthy, still playing good, giving myself chances, playing the best," he said last week. "It's almost good fun." Just when many people thought his Grand Slam-winning days were behind him having not won a major title since Wimbledon in 2012, Federer has now reeled off another three since his 35th birthday. Roger Federer planning Melbourne return in 2019 And there appears every likelihood of more to come, particularly a ninth Wimbledon crown later this year. While he makes it look easy, it doesn't come without a tough grind behind the scenes, as Federer explained earlier in the tournament. "There's always a lot of work that goes into it during the tournament, focus, and also preparation beforehand," he said. "For many weeks and months before, you try to put yourself in the position, are you going to be ready in case a good semi-finals or quarter-finals match at the Australian Open, so forth. "This is something you sort of plan from a long time ago. That's why when it does happen, it's a great feeling." Opinion: With 20th Grand Slam and counting, Federer is immortal How much it means was evident with Federer in tears at the presentation ceremony on Sunday. And all of this with two sets of twins to look after with wife Mirka -- Myla Rose and Charlene Riva and Leo and Lenny. A fit and healthy Federer chalking up yet another major title coincided with his long-time rivals, Rafael Nadal, Djokovic, Stan Wawrinka and Andy Murray, beginning the year with injury concerns. Record-setter Age certainly has not wearied the Swiss master as he was the oldest man at 36 to play in the Australian Open final since Australians Ken Rosewall (37) and Mal Anderson (36) faced each in the 1972 final. The result is that he stretched his lead on the all-time major-winners' list to 20 -- four ahead of Nadal, six in front of Pete Sampras and eight more than Djokovic. Only three women -- Steffi Graf (22), Serena Williams (23), and Margaret Court (24) -- have been crowned champion at more Slams. In an endless list of records, he also holds the all-time men's record of 332 Grand Slam wins since playing his first in 1999, with career earnings of more than US$115 million. Saturday's victory was also his 96th career title as he closes in on Jimmy Connors' Open-Era mark of 109. Federer, who spent a record 302 weeks at number one and was inside the top 10 from 2002 until 2015, saw his ranking slide to 17 -- his lowest since 2001 -- after he spent six months out in 2016 with a knee injury. But it has been all upside since last year's classic five-set final win over Nadal at the Australian Open. Despite his latest endeavour, Federer will remain world No.2 behind Nadal -- for now.

With 20 Grand Slam titles on board, 'Fed-express' to not stop

At its zenith, the British Empire was so extensive that it was told, &ldquo;this is the empire on which sun never sets&rdquo;.

&nbsp;

So during the last two weeks when Roger Federer was demolishing best of Tennis talent from across the globe at Australian Open, this phrase was echoing in my mind. Here is the enigma called Federer, who is playing professional Tennis for the last two decades yet continues to be a world beater. We can say, just like the British Empire, the sun will never set on Federer&#39;s career.

&nbsp;

We need to realise, once upon a time deep in the past, Federer won his first Grand Slam. That was July 2003. Mark Zuckerberg was still writing codes of Facebook, Barack Obama was just an Illinois State Senator, our hero MS Dhoni was toiling to make a mark at national level Cricket, Android &amp; smartphone did not exist and Apple hadn&rsquo;t even conceptualized its first iPhone.

&nbsp;

In one of the most competitive, popular and demanding sports, in which men from across length and breadth of the globe are toiling hard to make a mark, maintaining a winning spree the at the top level, for so long, is unequivocally no less than a miracle. At the top of it, in the Australia Open of 2018, Federer stormed in his 30th Grand Slam final, without dropping a set.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Till 2012, Federer had become, arguably, the greatest Tennis player of all times (GOAT) but the way he has propelled himself over the past 13 months, he is now even way beyond this &#39;GOAT&#39; discussion. He is reaching a level when he is set to symbolise the very sports he has been representing for all those years. Federer is to Tennis, what Pele is to Football &amp; Usain Bolt is to sprinting.

&nbsp;

With the 20th Grand Slam at Melbourne Park, Federer is at the unassailable summit. Federer is the only man in history who has won three Grand Slams at least five times. He won his 17th Grand Slam in 2012 (Wimbledon). The tally remained the same until the end of 2016. Even the most ardent of Federer&rsquo;s fans started believing that it was for the love for the game that Federer was stuck to court and as such 17 would remain his final tally. But with Australian Open last year, Federer spun a huge surprise. His resurgence with a bang has been quite unique and epitomises his greatness.

&nbsp;

But let&rsquo;s put number and statistics aside for a while, Federer is the greatest because of his alluring and slick playing style. The sign of greatest sportsperson is that they make things look so simple. If you see Shane Warne bowling and cueist Ronny &lsquo;O&rsquo; Sullivan clearing snooker table, you would feel how simple it is to bowl a leg-break or play snooker. Federer is in this class. His movement on courts are so rhythmic and at the top of it, single-handed backhand with clinical precision is Federer&rsquo;s biggest weapon. In fact, fluency in playing style is the secret of his longevity as his style is far less sapping on his body.

&nbsp;

Federer is the most complete player as Jimmy Connors once rightly described him &ldquo;There are four kinds of players in Tennis, hard court specialist, grass court specialist, clay court specialist and Roger Federer&rdquo;. He is such a perfect mixture of elegance, power and hard work that it is like Edberg, Sampras and Agassi rolled into one player.

&nbsp;

Marin Cilic deserves a mention too. Cilic had an unambiguous run till the final where he failed to conquer the big wall. With two finals in three Grand Slams, Cilic is nearing breakthrough and would be a player to watch in 2018.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Women Tennis, on the contrary, is being driven by a pool of many players who are at par with each other. After Williams sisters and Belgian duo Justine Henin and Kim Clijsters, Women Tennis is still waiting for the next breakthrough player. There are many players on the WTA with 1 or 2 Slams under their belt but none ruling the roost. This is well manifested by the fact that at the Australian Open of 2018, top two seeded players were playing in the final for their first Grand Slam.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Playing in her 43rd Grand Slam, when 2nd seeded Caroline Wozniacki was pumping her fist after winning her first Slam, I was recalling that tall big serve Croatian Goran Ivanisevic. Ivanisevic won his first Slam 13 years after he turned pro and after playing in more than 35 Slams.

&nbsp;

Wozniacki attained the top rank at the WTA way back in 2010 but then in August 2016, she hit a ranking as low as 74. In the second round match at the Australian Open she was 1-5 down in the final set and was facing two match points, but she showed nerves and staged an incredible comeback and never looked back. Considering this, her victory is unique. However it is to be seen that how her success will sustain in days to come, considering the volatility in Women&rsquo;s Tennis.

&nbsp;

But the bottom line remains that Australian Open would be known for one thing. It has delivered a clear verdict that Federer is immortal.&nbsp; &nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp;(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Roger Federer is the greatest because of his alluring and slick playing style.

At its zenith, the British Empire was so extensive that it was told, “this is the empire on which sun never sets”. So during the last two weeks when Roger Federer was demolishing best of Tennis talent from across the globe at Australian Open, this phrase was echoing in my mind. Here is the enigma called Federer, who is playing professional Tennis for the last two decades yet continues to be a world beater. We can say, just like the British Empire, the sun will never set on Federer's career. We need to realise, once upon a time deep in the past, Federer won his first Grand Slam. That was July 2003. Mark Zuckerberg was still writing codes of Facebook, Barack Obama was just an Illinois State Senator, our hero MS Dhoni was toiling to make a mark at national level Cricket, Android & smartphone did not exist and Apple hadn’t even conceptualized its first iPhone. In one of the most competitive, popular and demanding sports, in which men from across length and breadth of the globe are toiling hard to make a mark, maintaining a winning spree the at the top level, for so long, is unequivocally no less than a miracle. At the top of it, in the Australia Open of 2018, Federer stormed in his 30th Grand Slam final, without dropping a set. Till 2012, Federer had become, arguably, the greatest Tennis player of all times (GOAT) but the way he has propelled himself over the past 13 months, he is now even way beyond this 'GOAT' discussion. He is reaching a level when he is set to symbolise the very sports he has been representing for all those years. Federer is to Tennis, what Pele is to Football & Usain Bolt is to sprinting. With the 20th Grand Slam at Melbourne Park, Federer is at the unassailable summit. Federer is the only man in history who has won three Grand Slams at least five times. He won his 17th Grand Slam in 2012 (Wimbledon). The tally remained the same until the end of 2016. Even the most ardent of Federer’s fans started believing that it was for the love for the game that Federer was stuck to court and as such 17 would remain his final tally. But with Australian Open last year, Federer spun a huge surprise. His resurgence with a bang has been quite unique and epitomises his greatness. But let’s put number and statistics aside for a while, Federer is the greatest because of his alluring and slick playing style. The sign of greatest sportsperson is that they make things look so simple. If you see Shane Warne bowling and cueist Ronny ‘O’ Sullivan clearing snooker table, you would feel how simple it is to bowl a leg-break or play snooker. Federer is in this class. His movement on courts are so rhythmic and at the top of it, single-handed backhand with clinical precision is Federer’s biggest weapon. In fact, fluency in playing style is the secret of his longevity as his style is far less sapping on his body. Federer is the most complete player as Jimmy Connors once rightly described him “There are four kinds of players in Tennis, hard court specialist, grass court specialist, clay court specialist and Roger Federer”. He is such a perfect mixture of elegance, power and hard work that it is like Edberg, Sampras and Agassi rolled into one player. Marin Cilic deserves a mention too. Cilic had an unambiguous run till the final where he failed to conquer the big wall. With two finals in three Grand Slams, Cilic is nearing breakthrough and would be a player to watch in 2018. Women Tennis, on the contrary, is being driven by a pool of many players who are at par with each other. After Williams sisters and Belgian duo Justine Henin and Kim Clijsters, Women Tennis is still waiting for the next breakthrough player. There are many players on the WTA with 1 or 2 Slams under their belt but none ruling the roost. This is well manifested by the fact that at the Australian Open of 2018, top two seeded players were playing in the final for their first Grand Slam. Playing in her 43rd Grand Slam, when 2nd seeded Caroline Wozniacki was pumping her fist after winning her first Slam, I was recalling that tall big serve Croatian Goran Ivanisevic. Ivanisevic won his first Slam 13 years after he turned pro and after playing in more than 35 Slams. Wozniacki attained the top rank at the WTA way back in 2010 but then in August 2016, she hit a ranking as low as 74. In the second round match at the Australian Open she was 1-5 down in the final set and was facing two match points, but she showed nerves and staged an incredible comeback and never looked back. Considering this, her victory is unique. However it is to be seen that how her success will sustain in days to come, considering the volatility in Women’s Tennis. But the bottom line remains that Australian Open would be known for one thing. It has delivered a clear verdict that Federer is immortal. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: With 20th Grand Slam and counting, Federer is immortal

Australian Open champion Roger Federer is set to continue defying Father Time after announcing he will return to defend his title next year, the Swiss said on Monday.

The 36-year-old notched up his 20th grand slam title and sixth at Melbourne Park on Sunday with a 6-2 6-7(5) 6-3 3-6 6-1 victory over Croatia`s Marin Cilic, but initially forgot to say whether or not he planned to defend the title.

&quot;Yeah, I`d love to come back. I know I forgot to say that after the match,&quot; a bleary-eyed Federer told reporters on Monday. &quot;But I hope I come back again next year.&quot;

Federer equalled the record of six Australian Open men`s titles, held by Novak Djokovic and Roy Emerson, and emulated Ken Rosewall`s feat of claiming three grand slam titles after the age of 35. 
His longevity has in part been put down to the careful management of his playing schedule.

Despite being fully fit, he skipped the entire claycourt season last year to concentrate on Wimbledon, a decision that paid off with his eighth title on the southwest London grass courts.

He reiterated on Monday that he would continue to manage his schedule tightly and despite being within sight of the world`s top ranking, a decision on whether or not his next tournament would be in Dubai in late February had yet to be made.

&quot;We were in talks with them (Dubai organisers) but when the (Australian Open) tournament started, I just said `look, if it`s okay, I`d like to decide after the tournament`,&quot; he said.

&quot;That`s an ideal scenario for me. After the tournament, I`ll know how I feel... did I come out injured or not?

&quot;So now we know what the situation is.

&quot;I also have to decide on the claycourt season so all these things are kind of interlinked.

&quot;But it`s possible I`ll play something, but it`s also possible that maybe I just don`t play anything (for a while).&quot;

MORE SURREAL

Federer said he would make the decision about his schedule after spending some time with family at home in Switzerland, where he hoped the fact he had won the Australian Open title again would finally sink in.

&quot;This year seems more surreal, I can`t believe I was able to defend my title after all these years, that I could do it again,&quot; he said. &quot;To reach number 20, number six here, it`s just a lot trying to take it in.

&quot;Last year was a lot more straightforward, just disbelief that I won and there I was waking up with the trophy.

&quot;But, I don`t know, this year feels more surreal. I can`t believe that I was able to defend my title, that after all these years I could do it again.

&quot;It`s super special, one of the great moments in my career, and maybe this one is going to take longer to sink in.&quot;

Roger announced that he will return to defend his title next year

Australian Open champion Roger Federer is set to continue defying Father Time after announcing he will return to defend his title next year, the Swiss said on Monday. The 36-year-old notched up his 20th grand slam title and sixth at Melbourne Park on Sunday with a 6-2 6-7(5) 6-3 3-6 6-1 victory over Croatia`s Marin Cilic, but initially forgot to say whether or not he planned to defend the title. "Yeah, I`d love to come back. I know I forgot to say that after the match," a bleary-eyed Federer told reporters on Monday. "But I hope I come back again next year." Federer equalled the record of six Australian Open men`s titles, held by Novak Djokovic and Roy Emerson, and emulated Ken Rosewall`s feat of claiming three grand slam titles after the age of 35. His longevity has in part been put down to the careful management of his playing schedule. Despite being fully fit, he skipped the entire claycourt season last year to concentrate on Wimbledon, a decision that paid off with his eighth title on the southwest London grass courts. He reiterated on Monday that he would continue to manage his schedule tightly and despite being within sight of the world`s top ranking, a decision on whether or not his next tournament would be in Dubai in late February had yet to be made. "We were in talks with them (Dubai organisers) but when the (Australian Open) tournament started, I just said `look, if it`s okay, I`d like to decide after the tournament`," he said. "That`s an ideal scenario for me. After the tournament, I`ll know how I feel... did I come out injured or not? "So now we know what the situation is. "I also have to decide on the claycourt season so all these things are kind of interlinked. "But it`s possible I`ll play something, but it`s also possible that maybe I just don`t play anything (for a while)." MORE SURREAL Federer said he would make the decision about his schedule after spending some time with family at home in Switzerland, where he hoped the fact he had won the Australian Open title again would finally sink in. "This year seems more surreal, I can`t believe I was able to defend my title after all these years, that I could do it again," he said. "To reach number 20, number six here, it`s just a lot trying to take it in. "Last year was a lot more straightforward, just disbelief that I won and there I was waking up with the trophy. "But, I don`t know, this year feels more surreal. I can`t believe that I was able to defend my title, that after all these years I could do it again. "It`s super special, one of the great moments in my career, and maybe this one is going to take longer to sink in."

Roger Federer planning Melbourne return in 2019

Champion Roger Federer escaped the worst of the Melbourne heatwave but had to knuckle down to avoid getting burnt by feisty German Jan-Lennard Struff as he won 6-4 6-4 7-6(4) to reach the third round of the Australian Open on Thursday.

Looking as cool as a cucumber Federer glided through the opening two sets under the Rod Laver lights but was dragged into a scrap in the third as the 55th-ranked Struff went for broke.

The 36-year-old was momentarily knocked out of his stride when he slipped 3-1 down but broke back to take the set into a tiebreak on a steamy night.

Struff saved a match point with a searing backhand down the line but fell on the second when Federer crunched a huge serve into the corner.

Federer will meet French 29th seed Richard Gasquet for a place in the last 16 as he continues his bid for a 20th grand slam title.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-struggling-wawrinkas-early-exit-from-open-29988" target="_blank">Struggling Wawrinka struggles some more, loses to America&#39;s Sandgren</a>

Second seed Federer made no apologies for being scheduled to play during the evening session when the temperature, which peaked at 40 degrees Celsius in the afternoon, had dipped to more manageable levels.

&quot;We know it can be very hot here in Australia. I remember the days when we had four days of 40 degrees in a row a few years back. Now we got two,&quot; he said.

&quot;It&#39;s definitely a challenge. It&#39;s hard to prepare for that in some ways. But you know when you come down here that can happen. I&#39;m happy I played at nighttime. But I would back myself playing during the daytime also.&quot;

Federer broke the Struff serve in the fifth game when he ripped a forehand past the advancing German.

That proved enough to take the first set and he needed just one break, this time achieved with a rasping backhand pass, to claim the decisive break at 3-3 in the second.

Federer could never truly relax though and Struff broke for a 3-1 lead in the third set with some forceful tennis.

His advantage did not last long though as Federer replied in the next game and from then on Federer assumed control.

Federer glided through the opening two sets. The third was a scrap

Champion Roger Federer escaped the worst of the Melbourne heatwave but had to knuckle down to avoid getting burnt by feisty German Jan-Lennard Struff as he won 6-4 6-4 7-6(4) to reach the third round of the Australian Open on Thursday. Looking as cool as a cucumber Federer glided through the opening two sets under the Rod Laver lights but was dragged into a scrap in the third as the 55th-ranked Struff went for broke. The 36-year-old was momentarily knocked out of his stride when he slipped 3-1 down but broke back to take the set into a tiebreak on a steamy night. Struff saved a match point with a searing backhand down the line but fell on the second when Federer crunched a huge serve into the corner. Federer will meet French 29th seed Richard Gasquet for a place in the last 16 as he continues his bid for a 20th grand slam title. Also read: Struggling Wawrinka struggles some more, loses to America's Sandgren Second seed Federer made no apologies for being scheduled to play during the evening session when the temperature, which peaked at 40 degrees Celsius in the afternoon, had dipped to more manageable levels. "We know it can be very hot here in Australia. I remember the days when we had four days of 40 degrees in a row a few years back. Now we got two," he said. "It's definitely a challenge. It's hard to prepare for that in some ways. But you know when you come down here that can happen. I'm happy I played at nighttime. But I would back myself playing during the daytime also." Federer broke the Struff serve in the fifth game when he ripped a forehand past the advancing German. That proved enough to take the first set and he needed just one break, this time achieved with a rasping backhand pass, to claim the decisive break at 3-3 in the second. Federer could never truly relax though and Struff broke for a 3-1 lead in the third set with some forceful tennis. His advantage did not last long though as Federer replied in the next game and from then on Federer assumed control.

Australian Open: Federer struts his stuff, then knuckles down to beat Germany's Struff

Defending champion, top-seeded, Roger Federer recently shared a picture with a cute&nbsp;quokka, from his tour of Australia. He is there to play the first grand slam of 2018, Australian Open.

Quokka, which is similar to a wallaby or kangaroo captured smiling with the legend as if it was waiting for this selfie moment.

Roger Federer is currently one of the favourites at the Australian Open due to his spectacular performance at the Hopman Cup 2017.

He along with Belinda Bencic of Switzerland won the Hopman Cup after defeating Alexander Zverev and Angelique Kerber of Germany in the mixed doubles final.

Not only him, Karolina Pliskova a &nbsp;Czech professional tennis player shared an image with Rennae Stubbs, an Australian retired tennis player.

In the image, both of them posed with a fluffy koala bear.

Also David Goffin, a Belgian professional tennis player seen pampering the same koala bear.

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???? Cuteness overload ???? 
 
Looks like <a href="https://twitter.com/David__Goffin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@David__Goffin</a> has a new boo. ????????<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ausopen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ausopen</a> <a href="https://t.co/qoomvpRe8u">pic.twitter.com/qoomvpRe8u</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/953544192923377664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Seriously, too much cuteness. &quot;How much can a Koala bear...&quot;

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How much can a koala bear...? 
 
Two former world #1&rsquo;s apparently... <a href="https://twitter.com/KaPliskova?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KaPliskova</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/rennaestubbs?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rennaestubbs</a> meet a furry friend! ???? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/F50jqbNuIh">pic.twitter.com/F50jqbNuIh</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/953509534579924992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Elina Svitolina of&nbsp;Ukraine doesn&#39;t look like a snake loving person. She appeared little frightened of the giant snake, Ahh, obviously.

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Safe to say: <a href="https://twitter.com/ElinaSvitolina?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ElinaSvitolina</a> is not a fan of snakes ????????????<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ausopen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ausopen</a> <a href="https://t.co/Lobrg9lje9">pic.twitter.com/Lobrg9lje9</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/953539677067161600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Just casual post match interview with <a href="https://twitter.com/Channel7?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Channel7</a> ! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/australia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#australia</a> ???? <a href="https://t.co/szGMl8bTE0">pic.twitter.com/szGMl8bTE0</a>
&mdash; Elina Svitolina (@ElinaSvitolina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ElinaSvitolina/status/953492159239344128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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David Goffin, a Belgian professional tennis player captured pampering a cute koala bear, Elina Svitolina snapped with a giant snake

Defending champion, top-seeded, Roger Federer recently shared a picture with a cute quokka, from his tour of Australia. He is there to play the first grand slam of 2018, Australian Open. Quokka, which is similar to a wallaby or kangaroo captured smiling with the legend as if it was waiting for this selfie moment. Roger Federer is currently one of the favourites at the Australian Open due to his spectacular performance at the Hopman Cup 2017. He along with Belinda Bencic of Switzerland won the Hopman Cup after defeating Alexander Zverev and Angelique Kerber of Germany in the mixed doubles final. Not only him, Karolina Pliskova a Czech professional tennis player shared an image with Rennae Stubbs, an Australian retired tennis player. In the image, both of them posed with a fluffy koala bear. Also David Goffin, a Belgian professional tennis player seen pampering the same koala bear. ???? Cuteness overload ???? Looks like @David__Goffin has a new boo. ????????#ausopen pic.twitter.com/qoomvpRe8u — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 17, 2018 × Seriously, too much cuteness. "How much can a Koala bear..." How much can a koala bear...? Two former world #1’s apparently... @KaPliskova & @rennaestubbs meet a furry friend! ???? #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/F50jqbNuIh — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 17, 2018 × Elina Svitolina of Ukraine doesn't look like a snake loving person. She appeared little frightened of the giant snake, Ahh, obviously. Safe to say: @ElinaSvitolina is not a fan of snakes ????????????#ausopen pic.twitter.com/Lobrg9lje9 — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 17, 2018 × Just casual post match interview with @Channel7 ! #australia ???? pic.twitter.com/szGMl8bTE0 — Elina Svitolina (@ElinaSvitolina) January 17, 2018 ×

Australian Open: Tennis stars show love for animals

Roger Federer&nbsp;is currently one of the favourites at the grand slam, Australian Open&nbsp;due to his spectacular performance&nbsp;at the Hopman Cup 2017.

Roger Federer and Belinda Bencic of Switzerland hoisted the Hopman Cup after defeating Alexander Zverev and Angelique Kerber of Germany in the mixed doubles final.

The 36-year-old Swiss Also registered easy win in the first round of Australian Open by defeating Bedene, 6-3 6-4 6-3 on Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne.

But recently Fed Express is trending due to a video which has gone viral on social media.

In one of the league stage matches of Hopman Cup, Federer&nbsp;ignored his partner&nbsp;Belinda Bencic and continued the rally with his opponent&nbsp;Jack Sock of the USA.

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Men will be men.... <a href="https://t.co/13dsIh3PVS">pic.twitter.com/13dsIh3PVS</a>
&mdash; Rishi Bagree ???????? (@rishibagree) <a href="https://twitter.com/rishibagree/status/952091874872840193?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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A minute-long clip from recently concluded Hopman Cup shows&nbsp;a game played between the male partners,&nbsp;Federer and&nbsp;Jack Sock from Switzerland and the United States.

Both the players, Federer and&nbsp;Jack Sock&nbsp;did something that made their female partners Bencic and&nbsp;CoCo Vandeweghe&nbsp;respectively, leave the court&nbsp;and sit on the bench.

&nbsp;

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Federer ignored his partner Belinda Bencic and continued the rally with his opponent Jack Sock of the USA for quite some time

Roger Federer is currently one of the favourites at the grand slam, Australian Open due to his spectacular performance at the Hopman Cup 2017. Roger Federer and Belinda Bencic of Switzerland hoisted the Hopman Cup after defeating Alexander Zverev and Angelique Kerber of Germany in the mixed doubles final. The 36-year-old Swiss Also registered easy win in the first round of Australian Open by defeating Bedene, 6-3 6-4 6-3 on Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne. But recently Fed Express is trending due to a video which has gone viral on social media. In one of the league stage matches of Hopman Cup, Federer ignored his partner Belinda Bencic and continued the rally with his opponent Jack Sock of the USA. Men will be men.... pic.twitter.com/13dsIh3PVS — Rishi Bagree ???????? (@rishibagree) January 13, 2018 × A minute-long clip from recently concluded Hopman Cup shows a game played between the male partners, Federer and Jack Sock from Switzerland and the United States. Both the players, Federer and Jack Sock did something that made their female partners Bencic and CoCo Vandeweghe respectively, leave the court and sit on the bench.

Watch: Federer, Jack Sock upset other two women players during match

Defending champion Roger&nbsp;Federer&nbsp;got quickly into his majestic stride with a straight-sets win over Slovenian Aljaz Bedene in his opening match at the Australian Open on Tuesday.

The 36-year-old Swiss turned the evening clash on Rod Laver Arena into an exhibition as he breezed past Bedene with consummate ease 6-3 6-4 6-3.

A single break in each set was enough for&nbsp;Federer&nbsp;who looked in total control from beginning to end.

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&ldquo;With Rafa the final was epic. It seems like the stars really aligned for us last year. To play in front of a quality crowd like you guys, it was very special.&rdquo; 
 
&ldquo;[<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> 2017] was my favourite tournament of the season by far, hands down.&rdquo; 
 
- <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rogerfederer</a> <a href="https://t.co/d5QgRuFamy">pic.twitter.com/d5QgRuFamy</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/953207433408626688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The world number two, bidding for a 20th grand slam title after claiming his 18th here last year and 19th at Wimbledon, broke Bedene&#39;s serve in the fourth game of the first set in which he conceded only three points on his serve.

Federer&nbsp;pounced immediately at the start of the second to gain another break and cantered through the rest of the match against a player who he had never played before.

One member of the sell-out crowd yelled &quot;Give him a chance Rog&quot; late on but the Swiss was not listening and finished the match on Bedene&#39;s serve when his opponent netted a backhand.

Also read: Australian Open: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-wawrinka-zverev-djokovic-progress-to-second-round-29679">Wawrinka, Zverev, Djokovic enter second round</a>

Also read:&nbsp;Australian Open: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-the-lucky-red-dress-saved-simona-as-she-survives-first-round-29680" target="_blank">The lucky red dress saved Simona as she survives first round</a>

&nbsp;

Defending champion Federer beats Slovenian Aljaz Bedene, 6-3 6-4 6-3 in straight sets

Defending champion Roger Federer got quickly into his majestic stride with a straight-sets win over Slovenian Aljaz Bedene in his opening match at the Australian Open on Tuesday. The 36-year-old Swiss turned the evening clash on Rod Laver Arena into an exhibition as he breezed past Bedene with consummate ease 6-3 6-4 6-3. A single break in each set was enough for Federer who looked in total control from beginning to end. “With Rafa the final was epic. It seems like the stars really aligned for us last year. To play in front of a quality crowd like you guys, it was very special.” “[#AusOpen 2017] was my favourite tournament of the season by far, hands down.” - @rogerfederer pic.twitter.com/d5QgRuFamy — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 16, 2018 × The world number two, bidding for a 20th grand slam title after claiming his 18th here last year and 19th at Wimbledon, broke Bedene's serve in the fourth game of the first set in which he conceded only three points on his serve. Federer pounced immediately at the start of the second to gain another break and cantered through the rest of the match against a player who he had never played before. One member of the sell-out crowd yelled "Give him a chance Rog" late on but the Swiss was not listening and finished the match on Bedene's serve when his opponent netted a backhand. Also read: Australian Open: Wawrinka, Zverev, Djokovic enter second round Also read: Australian Open: The lucky red dress saved Simona as she survives first round

Australian Open: Roger roars in round one

Defending champion Roger&nbsp;Federer&nbsp;got quickly into his majestic stride with a straight-sets win over Slovenian Aljaz Bedene in his opening match at the Australian Open on Tuesday.

The 36-year-old Swiss turned the evening clash on Rod Laver Arena into an exhibition as he breezed past Bedene with consummate ease 6-3 6-4 6-3.

A single break in each set was enough for&nbsp;Federer&nbsp;who looked in total control from beginning to end.

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&ldquo;With Rafa the final was epic. It seems like the stars really aligned for us last year. To play in front of a quality crowd like you guys, it was very special.&rdquo; 
 
&ldquo;[<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> 2017] was my favourite tournament of the season by far, hands down.&rdquo; 
 
- <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rogerfederer</a> <a href="https://t.co/d5QgRuFamy">pic.twitter.com/d5QgRuFamy</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/953207433408626688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The world number two, bidding for a 20th grand slam title after claiming his 18th here last year and 19th at Wimbledon, broke Bedene&#39;s serve in the fourth game of the first set in which he conceded only three points on his serve.

Federer&nbsp;pounced immediately at the start of the second to gain another break and cantered through the rest of the match against a player who he had never played before.

One member of the sell-out crowd yelled &quot;Give him a chance Rog&quot; late on but the Swiss was not listening and finished the match on Bedene&#39;s serve when his opponent netted a backhand.

&nbsp;

Defending champion Roger Federer beats Slovenian Aljaz Bedene, 6-3 6-4 6-3 in straight sets

Defending champion Roger Federer got quickly into his majestic stride with a straight-sets win over Slovenian Aljaz Bedene in his opening match at the Australian Open on Tuesday. The 36-year-old Swiss turned the evening clash on Rod Laver Arena into an exhibition as he breezed past Bedene with consummate ease 6-3 6-4 6-3. A single break in each set was enough for Federer who looked in total control from beginning to end. “With Rafa the final was epic. It seems like the stars really aligned for us last year. To play in front of a quality crowd like you guys, it was very special.” “[#AusOpen 2017] was my favourite tournament of the season by far, hands down.” - @rogerfederer pic.twitter.com/d5QgRuFamy — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 16, 2018 × The world number two, bidding for a 20th grand slam title after claiming his 18th here last year and 19th at Wimbledon, broke Bedene's serve in the fourth game of the first set in which he conceded only three points on his serve. Federer pounced immediately at the start of the second to gain another break and cantered through the rest of the match against a player who he had never played before. One member of the sell-out crowd yelled "Give him a chance Rog" late on but the Swiss was not listening and finished the match on Bedene's serve when his opponent netted a backhand.

Australian Open: Roger roars in round one, beats Slovenian Aljaz Bedene

On 15th January, the first Grand Slam of 2018 Australian will start. The two legends of the game Rafael Nadal &amp; Roger Federer are sitting at the top two seeds in Men&rsquo;s singles.

&nbsp;

Since the last version of Australian Open was played, one year has gone past but the hangover of that epic and immortal final in Men&rsquo;s Singles doesn&rsquo;t cease to exist. Two greatest players of all times Federer and Nadal played in a high voltage final that year in Australian Open; which is one among the best ever match played in any Grand Slam and most watched match as well.

&nbsp;

Federer held nerves till the end and won this marathon clash in five sets. It was Tennis at its best, truly mesmerizing and intoxicating.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The interesting point here is that Federer and Nadal went to Melbourne last year with their own set of problems and with persistent issues. Both were not at all on the list of favourites and were seeded 17th and 9th in the tournament respectively.

&nbsp;

By 2006, both Federer and Nadal had already achieved cult status in the game. No one would have perceived in 2006 that 11 years down the line, in 2017, Federer and Nadal would make a clean sweep by winning two Slams each and they will take top two seeding in opening Grand Slam of 2018. 10 years is a long period in competitive Tennis and maintaining a Grand Slam winning spree for such long period is a huge achievement. Federer and Nadal have truly redefined the word longevity in Men&rsquo;s Tennis.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

In the window spanning 2008-2017, the men ATP tour has actually been dominated by the big three: Federer, Nadal and Djokovic. Together they won 32 out of total 40 Grand Slams in this period. Federer is even more incredible, as he had won 12 Grand Slam till 2007 itself and 7 during past 10 years. Federer&rsquo;s first and last (19th) Grand Slam were 14 years apart, a feat which is truly incredible.&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

The big three have been so impeccable that it has been for long now that Men&rsquo;s Tennis is waiting for its the next big star. Men&rsquo;s Tennis icons have a typical template; they make their arrival felt with a thumping sound in their teens or in the early twenties. Like Boris Becker with Wimbledon Title in 1985, Pete Sampras with US Open Title in 1990, Roger Federer with that iconic victory over Pete Sampras in 2001 Wimbledon. Last time such an entry was made by Djokovic in 2008 in Australian Open. Andy Murray and Stan Wawrinka don&rsquo;t quite fit in this template despite three Grand Slams each for them, as success came little late for them and just after three Grand Slams each they are past their prime.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

So what would happen in this New Year at Australian Open? A new star would make headway to the title or one of these senior players will lift the title.

&nbsp;

This year situation is different as Andy Murray is out of action on health ground. Nadal and Djokovic are struggling with fitness issues. As of now, both are on for the tournament but uncertainties loom. Djokovic has been struggling ever since he won the French Open in 2016 on various front and he has himself admitted that he is not sure of his fitness in days to come. Nadal has been in a whirlwind form in 2017. At the age of 31, he finished the year 2017 with top rank (oldest ever to do so) but currently, his fitness is troubling him. Stan Wawrinka is reeling with this troubling knee and it is still unsure whether he can turn up for his 1st round match in Australian Open.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

In this situation, among all oldies, it looks like a smooth sailing for Federer who is eying his whopping 20th Grand Slam and 6th Australian Open.

&nbsp;

For those who are looking for the next big name in Men&rsquo;s Tennis, eyes are on 198 cms tall, current world number four and 20 years old German youngster Alexander Zverev.&nbsp; Though he has a mediocre Grand Slam record till date, he defeated Federer in 2017 Rogers Cup. Incidentally Zverev is 20 years of age right now; the age at which Pete Sampras, Federer and Djokovic arrived with a bang. So this may be Zverev&rsquo;s moment.

&nbsp;

Seeded third, the 26 years old Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov is a contender too. He lost out in the semi-final last year. Dimitrov won the Junior Wimbledon title in 2008 and has been active in ATP for many years. Success came him bit late but 2017 was an outstanding year for him

&nbsp;

This is a great chance for us to see a new winner at the Australian Open. Among the legends, there is only Roger Federer. So most likely it would be the 20th title for Roger Federer or a new star will come to the horizon at Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne.

&nbsp;

But you never know. Australian Open sometimes gives surprising Champions like Petr Korda in 1998 and Thomas Johansson 2002. Let&rsquo;s wait until 28th January 2018.&nbsp; &nbsp;

&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL).&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

&nbsp;

Either a new star would make headway to the title or one of these senior players will lift the title.

On 15th January, the first Grand Slam of 2018 Australian will start. The two legends of the game Rafael Nadal & Roger Federer are sitting at the top two seeds in Men’s singles. Since the last version of Australian Open was played, one year has gone past but the hangover of that epic and immortal final in Men’s Singles doesn’t cease to exist. Two greatest players of all times Federer and Nadal played in a high voltage final that year in Australian Open; which is one among the best ever match played in any Grand Slam and most watched match as well. Federer held nerves till the end and won this marathon clash in five sets. It was Tennis at its best, truly mesmerizing and intoxicating. The interesting point here is that Federer and Nadal went to Melbourne last year with their own set of problems and with persistent issues. Both were not at all on the list of favourites and were seeded 17th and 9th in the tournament respectively. By 2006, both Federer and Nadal had already achieved cult status in the game. No one would have perceived in 2006 that 11 years down the line, in 2017, Federer and Nadal would make a clean sweep by winning two Slams each and they will take top two seeding in opening Grand Slam of 2018. 10 years is a long period in competitive Tennis and maintaining a Grand Slam winning spree for such long period is a huge achievement. Federer and Nadal have truly redefined the word longevity in Men’s Tennis. In the window spanning 2008-2017, the men ATP tour has actually been dominated by the big three: Federer, Nadal and Djokovic. Together they won 32 out of total 40 Grand Slams in this period. Federer is even more incredible, as he had won 12 Grand Slam till 2007 itself and 7 during past 10 years. Federer’s first and last (19th) Grand Slam were 14 years apart, a feat which is truly incredible. The big three have been so impeccable that it has been for long now that Men’s Tennis is waiting for its the next big star. Men’s Tennis icons have a typical template; they make their arrival felt with a thumping sound in their teens or in the early twenties. Like Boris Becker with Wimbledon Title in 1985, Pete Sampras with US Open Title in 1990, Roger Federer with that iconic victory over Pete Sampras in 2001 Wimbledon. Last time such an entry was made by Djokovic in 2008 in Australian Open. Andy Murray and Stan Wawrinka don’t quite fit in this template despite three Grand Slams each for them, as success came little late for them and just after three Grand Slams each they are past their prime. So what would happen in this New Year at Australian Open? A new star would make headway to the title or one of these senior players will lift the title. This year situation is different as Andy Murray is out of action on health ground. Nadal and Djokovic are struggling with fitness issues. As of now, both are on for the tournament but uncertainties loom. Djokovic has been struggling ever since he won the French Open in 2016 on various front and he has himself admitted that he is not sure of his fitness in days to come. Nadal has been in a whirlwind form in 2017. At the age of 31, he finished the year 2017 with top rank (oldest ever to do so) but currently, his fitness is troubling him. Stan Wawrinka is reeling with this troubling knee and it is still unsure whether he can turn up for his 1st round match in Australian Open. In this situation, among all oldies, it looks like a smooth sailing for Federer who is eying his whopping 20th Grand Slam and 6th Australian Open. For those who are looking for the next big name in Men’s Tennis, eyes are on 198 cms tall, current world number four and 20 years old German youngster Alexander Zverev. Though he has a mediocre Grand Slam record till date, he defeated Federer in 2017 Rogers Cup. Incidentally Zverev is 20 years of age right now; the age at which Pete Sampras, Federer and Djokovic arrived with a bang. So this may be Zverev’s moment. Seeded third, the 26 years old Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov is a contender too. He lost out in the semi-final last year. Dimitrov won the Junior Wimbledon title in 2008 and has been active in ATP for many years. Success came him bit late but 2017 was an outstanding year for him This is a great chance for us to see a new winner at the Australian Open. Among the legends, there is only Roger Federer. So most likely it would be the 20th title for Roger Federer or a new star will come to the horizon at Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne. But you never know. Australian Open sometimes gives surprising Champions like Petr Korda in 1998 and Thomas Johansson 2002. Let’s wait until 28th January 2018. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL).

Opinion: Will it be Roger Federer or a new star will arrive at Australian Open 2018

Roger Federer will open his Australian Open title defence against Slovenian Aljaz Bedene next week, while top seed Rafa Nadal, the losing finalist last year, was paired with Dominican Victor Estrella Burgos at the draw on Thursday.

Women&#39;s top seed Simona Halep of Romania faces Australian wildcard Destanee Aiava in the first round, with second seed Caroline Wozniacki starting out against Halep&#39;s compatriot Mihaela Buzarnescu.

Serena Williams will not defend the women&#39;s title having had her first child last year but 2008 champion Maria Sharapova, who failed a drugs test at the tournament in 2016, is back unseeded after a ban and will face Germany&#39;s Tatjana Maria.

Williams&#39;s sister Venus, who lost to her sibling in the final last year, is seeded fourth and the 37-year-old was handed a tricky first encounter against Swiss former world number seven Belinda Bencic, who is 17 years her junior.

Men&#39;s third seed Grigor Dimitrov will face a qualifier, with Alexander Zverev, ranked fourth, playing Italian Thomas Fabbiano but with 2014 champion Stan Wawrinka, returning after surgery, in his section of the draw.

Young gun Zverev had little luck in his first Australian Open draw as a top five seed with either Wawrinka, who plays Ricardas Berankis, or Novak Djokovic potentially standing in his path in the quarter-finals.

Six-times Melbourne Park champion Djokovic, seeded 14th after missing the back end of last season with an elbow injury, will take on American lefthander Donald Young in his first match with mercurial Frenchman Gael Monfils looming in round two.

Federer also has Milos Raonic, Juan Martin del Potro, David Goffin and Tomas Berdych in his quarter of the draw, while Nadal would appear to have the easier section, although former US Open champion Marin Cilic looms as a last-eight opponent.

If the draw goes to seeding, Dimitrov would face American Jack Sock in the last eight, with ailing world number five Dominic Thiem, who withdrew from Kooyong because of illness on Thursday, taking on Zverev.

Britain&#39;s Andy Murray and Japan`s Kei Nishikori have already withdrawn from the championships and women&#39;s world number three Garbine Muguruza has twice pulled out of tournaments over the last two weeks due to leg cramps and a thigh problem.

The Wimbledon champion is scheduled take on France&#39;s Jessika Ponchet in the first round, while French Open champion Jelena Ostapenko was paired with veteran Francesca Schiavone and US Open champion Sloane Stephens will take on China&#39;s Zhang Shuai.

Australia&#39;s sole men&#39;s seed, Nick Kyrgios, takes on Brazilian Rogerio Dutra Silva and local women`s 18th seed Ashleigh Barty takes on Belarusian Aryna Sabalenka.

Serena Williams will not defend the women's title having had her first child last year but 2008 champion Maria Sharapova, who failed a drugs test at the tournament in 2016, is back unseeded after a ban and will face Germany's Tatjana Maria.

Roger Federer will open his Australian Open title defence against Slovenian Aljaz Bedene next week, while top seed Rafa Nadal, the losing finalist last year, was paired with Dominican Victor Estrella Burgos at the draw on Thursday. Women's top seed Simona Halep of Romania faces Australian wildcard Destanee Aiava in the first round, with second seed Caroline Wozniacki starting out against Halep's compatriot Mihaela Buzarnescu. Serena Williams will not defend the women's title having had her first child last year but 2008 champion Maria Sharapova, who failed a drugs test at the tournament in 2016, is back unseeded after a ban and will face Germany's Tatjana Maria. Williams's sister Venus, who lost to her sibling in the final last year, is seeded fourth and the 37-year-old was handed a tricky first encounter against Swiss former world number seven Belinda Bencic, who is 17 years her junior. Men's third seed Grigor Dimitrov will face a qualifier, with Alexander Zverev, ranked fourth, playing Italian Thomas Fabbiano but with 2014 champion Stan Wawrinka, returning after surgery, in his section of the draw. Young gun Zverev had little luck in his first Australian Open draw as a top five seed with either Wawrinka, who plays Ricardas Berankis, or Novak Djokovic potentially standing in his path in the quarter-finals. Six-times Melbourne Park champion Djokovic, seeded 14th after missing the back end of last season with an elbow injury, will take on American lefthander Donald Young in his first match with mercurial Frenchman Gael Monfils looming in round two. Federer also has Milos Raonic, Juan Martin del Potro, David Goffin and Tomas Berdych in his quarter of the draw, while Nadal would appear to have the easier section, although former US Open champion Marin Cilic looms as a last-eight opponent. If the draw goes to seeding, Dimitrov would face American Jack Sock in the last eight, with ailing world number five Dominic Thiem, who withdrew from Kooyong because of illness on Thursday, taking on Zverev. Britain's Andy Murray and Japan`s Kei Nishikori have already withdrawn from the championships and women's world number three Garbine Muguruza has twice pulled out of tournaments over the last two weeks due to leg cramps and a thigh problem. The Wimbledon champion is scheduled take on France's Jessika Ponchet in the first round, while French Open champion Jelena Ostapenko was paired with veteran Francesca Schiavone and US Open champion Sloane Stephens will take on China's Zhang Shuai. Australia's sole men's seed, Nick Kyrgios, takes on Brazilian Rogerio Dutra Silva and local women`s 18th seed Ashleigh Barty takes on Belarusian Aryna Sabalenka.

Roger Federer to open Australian Open against Bedene

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