Serena Williams of the US (left) touches hands with her sister Venus Williams during their Women’s doubles match against Sara Errani and Roberta Vinci of Italy, yesterday.
MELBOURNE: Roger Federer believes it’s becoming easier to play consistently as he prepares for his record 35th consecutive Grand Slam quarter-final at the Australian Open today.
The all-time Grand Slam leader with 17 major titles is the epitome of consistency after defusing the big service of Canadian Milos Raonic in Monday’s fourth round to take his place in the last eight.
The Swiss great takes on 2008 runner-up Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in the quarters having not dropped serve in his 57 games at the tournament.
Federer last missed out on reaching a Slam quarter-final when beaten in the third round at the 2004 French Open by Brazilian Gustavo Kuerten.
He says slower court conditions have made his feat more achievable.
“Obviously times have changed. Conditions have slowed down. That gives you an opportunity to be more consistent in all four majors, while before we had the clay court specialists, the fast court players,” Federer said.
“Maybe I’m taking away things from myself a little bit, but I truly believe things are a bit easier to play more consistent today.”
A major part of the remarkable success Federer has achieved in his decorated career is his largely injury-free run.
“But then, of course, you have to stay injury-free. Whatever happens in a five-setter, if things don’t go well physically for you, you’ll pay the price and then you’ll drop out of the tournament,” he said.
“So many times, even if I did have problems, I did find a way to come through and survive and go deep in the tournament, often even win it.
“I’m happy to be in another one (quarter-final), but does it drive me? I don’t know; I’m not sure. It’s a nice record to have. Obviously as it’s ongoing, you try to keep working at it.”
Federer has yet to drop a set at the Open, while Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray, have had their wobbles.
He was delighted with his form against Raonic, who has the most potent serve on the Tour.
Federer dismissed Raonic in straight sets, without a service break.
“It was a very solid night, so I’m very happy. If I can maintain such a level of play, I give myself a chance of going deep in this tournament, which is obviously the goal,” he said. AFP
