Roger Federer questioned for Australian Open exit - ‘The greats usually find a way’
ROGER FEDERER has been doubted for his surprise exit in last month’s Australian Open by former coach Paul Annacone.
Federer lost 7-6 6-7 5-7 6-7 in the last 16 to 20-year-old Stefanos Tsitsipas in Melbourne.
It meant the Swiss was unable to retain his crown as he enters the autumn of his career.
Federer admitted at the ATP Finals last year in London that the new kids on the block will trouble the Big Three as a transition period kicks in.
And Annacone, who has coached Federer and Pete Sampras in his career, believes the loss to the 20-year-old Greek was evidence of the 20-time Grand Slam winner’s withering midas touch.
A lot of credit goes to Tsitsipas, but the greats usually find a way
“Roger Federer hit a stumbling block named Stefanos Tsitsipas,” the American wrote on his Facebook page.
“This young man is a young player on the way to elite status. It’s exciting to see his flair and variety in game style.
“He has charisma, talent and the mindset to be in many more final weekends of majors - Roger played some great tennis in the tournament, but was spotty in his loss, 0-12 on break point chances.
“A lot of credit goes to Tsitsipas, but the greats usually find a way - in this moment RF could not - no time to panic if you are a Fed Fan.
“He will go back with his team; process, plan and get back to work.”
On the final Down Under, which was won by the incredible Novak Djokovic who overcame Rafael Nadal in straight sets, Annacone added: “Amazing to see the champions Nadal and Djokovic make big statements in the semi finals against Tsitsipas & [Lucas] Pouille.
“The young guns saw there is a distinct difference between very good and great, especially when the stage is the final weekend of a major.
“Terrific event for both of these players, I’m happy to see Pouille playing so well, he had a rough year in 2018.”