Talk of His Demise Might be a Little Premature

It was just a short time ago that Roger Federer was the number one player in the world. Today, many tennis experts have said his days look numbered, and they could be right in saying that the best player to ever swing a racket is slowing down. His best chance for one more Slam is this year’s Wimbledon, however, here are four reasons why Federer will defend his title this year.

1. Federer is the defending champion, and despite his mileage, is still perhaps the premier grass court player in the world.

2. The conditions at The All England Club are favorable to Federer in 2013. Previously, London had seen record heat over most years in the last decade or so which slows the courts down and makes the play more like clay. This year, the weather has been cool and wet, which makes the court play fast and low, just like last year when he won his seventh Wimbledon title.

3. While there are great all-around players in the draw, no grass court "specialists" look to be real contenders this year. Andy Murray comes the closest to fitting this description, but he might not be 100 percent healthy this year.

4. You just cannot underestimate the heart and resolve of Roger Federer, a great champion.

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March/April 2024 Digital Edition