The Swiss returned to action in 2017 after spending several months on the sidelines due to a knee injury. His ranking had slipped all the way down to World No. 17, meaning he was handed a rather difficult draw at the Australian Open.
It didn’t deter a champion like Roger Federer, who defeated four top-10 players en route to winning his 18th Major. In the final, the Swiss overcame long-time rival Rafael Nadal 6-4, 3-6, 6-1, 3-6, 6-3 in the final after finding himself a break down in the final set.
Speaking in the interview, the World No. 30 called the victory “ultra-special.” He also said his unusually animated celebration upon winning his fifth Norman Brookes Challenge Cup was a sign of how much the moment meant to him.
The Swiss maestro also reminisced about his final against Nadal at Melbourne Park in 2009. He was beaten 7-5, 3-6, 7-6(3), 3-6, 6-2 by the Spaniard, who lifted his first Australian Open title.
The Swiss was so distraught during the presentation ceremony that he could not hold back his tears, prompting Nadal to console him with a heartwarming hug. Despite the loss, Federer admitted it was a great match that he was proud to have contested.
Federer regarded the final as “one of the best matches” he and Nadal have played over the years, no small feat considering they have faced each other 40 times till date. The former World No. 1 further praised Nadal’s defensive capabilities on the day.
“The 2018 Australian Open was the last time I won a Grand Slam, so it’s time to do it again!” - Roger Federer
Roger Federer also recalled his triumph at the 2018 Australian Open, where he defended his title with a 6-2, 6-7(5), 6-3, 3-6, 6-1 victory over Marin Cilic in the final. The win marked his 20th and most recent Grand Slam title.
The World No. 30 remarked that the win made him very happy since it came at the end of a tournament where he played “great tennis”.
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