Australian Open 2019: Roger Federer sends warning to rivals
What's the story
20-time men's singles Grand Slam winner Roger Federer has sent a warning to his rivals ahead of the Australian Open 2019 event. The Swiss maestro is out to defend his title at Melbourne Park for the third successive year. The 37-year-old Federer said that he is confident after enjoying a successful Hopman Cup warm-up in Perth. Here is more.
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It needs a good performance to beat me: Federer
Federer is eyeing a record seventh Melbourne crown besides a 21st major victory. The veteran tennis ace opens his campaign against Denis Istomin in tomorrow night's match on Rod Laver Arena. "I'm playing good tennis. I'm confident that I think it needs a good performance by my opponent probably to beat me," said Federer in his press match conference.
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The off-season was great for me, says Roger
"What I can say is the off-season was great for me. I think maybe it showed a little bit at the Hopman Cup already. Again, look, I'm playing tomorrow. We'll see how it's going to be here in Melbourne," said the third seed.
Watchful
Federer wary about Istomin's heroics two years ago
Federer will need to start well against his first round opponent, who stunned Novak Djokovic in the second round here two years ago. Federer stated that he watched that match and is wary about Istomin. "I know what Denis did to Novak. I watched basically the entire game a couple years ago when he beat Novak here."
Start
Federer has always started well at the Australian Open
Federer beat Rafael Nadal at the Australian Open finale in 2017. The Swiss claimed a famous five-set win. Last year, the veteran saw off Marin Cilic after another five-set duel. Federer has at least reached the semi-finals in 13 of his past 14 visits to Melbourne. This shows he starts off well here at the Australian Open. His ability to hold serve is crucial.