Federer aims for 9th Gerry Weber title

Roger Federer is going for his 9th title at the Gerry Weber Open in Halle, Germany this week.

He says he’s healthy physically, but is he rusty after skipping the clay court season?

He says results in Stuttgart (where he lost his first match to Tommy Haas) and Halle are less important than his health going into Wimbledon, his main goal since losing to Milos Raonic last year in the semi-finals. But he’s focussed on playing well this week.

An early exit at Halle won’t help his confidence, but a 9th title would most likely make him the favorite at Wimbledon in July.

“For me to be mentally game-wise and physically ready, I need to play matches and feel well,” said Federer, quoted in German media. “That’s why this week is very important and that’s why I’m focusing on this week only. The good thing is, I’m not injured. Nothing is hurting and I can go full-throttle.”

Federer has Kei Nishikori, Ivo Karlovic and defending Halle champion Florian Mayer on his side of the draw. Dominic Thiem and Alexander Zverev lurk on the other side.

(words and images copyright Christopher Johnson Globalite Media all rights reserved)