Mark Philippoussis refuses to write Roger Federer off and believes he can still win another Grand Slam
Roger Federer is far from done at Grand Slam level, says the opponent he beat in his first major final.
The Swiss – who beat Mark Philippoussis in his maiden Wimbledon win back in 2003 – has struggled to find his best form since winning the 2017 Australian Open and he was stunned in the fourth round by Greece’s Stefanos Tsitsipas on Sunday night.
Questions have been asked regarding the soon-to-be world No. 6’s future in the game, with plans to play on the clay leaving many to suggest this could prove to be his final year in the sport.
Federer has fallen before the semi-finals of the last three majors he’s played in but Philippoussis is not concerned by his results and believes he could add another Slam to his 20-strong collection..
‘I know! That guy sucks, right? It’s terrible,’ he joked.
‘People are panicking, they said the same thing and then all of a sudden he won some Slams again. He’s moving well, he doesn’t seem to have any problems physically. He looks as hungry as ever.
‘He didn’t play a terrible match, he came up against a guy who was just too good and stepped up when he had to. Last few years he’s won here and takes some time off in the clay-court season so maybe things might be a little bit different for him this year as far as preparation.
‘For him, it’s just about the Grand Slams, right? I’m sure he’ll be thinking about trying to be ready and be physical and mental shape at his peak for Wimbledon. That’s his focus. I wouldn’t put it out my mind to say he’s got another Grand Slam in him that’s for sure.
‘Do I feel like he can win one more Slam? Yeah. And then all of a sudden that one more can become one more maybe. I definitely think he can win one more Slam, absolutely.’
The Australian was impressed by Tsitsipas’ display and believes he will spearhead a new generation along with Alexander Zverev.
‘He was one to look out for along with Zverev,’ he added. ‘In my opinion those two are definitely spearheading the new generation. I feel like they have the all round game and complete package gamewise, physically and mentally.
‘To win one match here and there is a different thing. It’s about consistency. Tsitsipas had a breakout last year and he’s definitely showing his consistency.
‘He’s a strong player and he’s got a beautiful all round game. He’s obviously someone who has been consistent and he looks like he’s not slowing down so I’m definitely excited to continue watching him.
‘It was a great match from the word go. Incredibly high quality on both sides. Tstisipas held his nerve in the breakers. He played great tennis and kept on going for his shots. Stayed positive and kept on attacking Federer, especially on the backhand side.’
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