Stan Wawrinka makes Roger Federer admission at Indian Wells which Novak Djokovic will hate
STAN WAWRINKA says Roger Federer is the greatest player of all time ahead of their Indian Wells third-round showdown.
Indian Wells: Wawrinka beats Fucsovics in second round tie
The Swiss pair are gearing up to headline the night session on Court 1 this evening.
Wawrinka and Federer have been very vocal this week in voicing their frustration at the Players’ Council’s decision to oust ATP chairman Chris Kermode.
Novak Djokovic heads the Players’ Council and was a leading voice in axing the top chief.
Wawrinka ranted at the Serbian last week and now he has claimed Federer will leave a greater legacy than the world No 1.
“Yeah, I will be [ready],” Wawrinka said ahead of the clash.
“No, but it's going to be tough match, for sure. He's the best player to ever play the sport.
“Stats against each other are really, really not in my favour. Yeah, I think it's great for me.
“Most important is to win two matches here, to win the way I won [against Fucsovics].
“It was tough battle, fighting, staying there physically, tennis-wise, mentally, also.
“Those match I know that can help me to get some big result.”
Wawrinka needed three sets to squeeze past Marton Fucsovics in the second round.
He also impressed against an in-form Dan Evans in the opening match.
Indian Wells: Federer reflects on win against Gojowczyk
But the three-time Grand Slam winner has only beaten Federer on clay which makes the hard court tie that even more difficult.
“Well, I think maybe on clay, first my game is a bit more stronger, I have a little bit more time,” Wawrinka added.
“I can use more topspin, playing more heavy on his backhand, push him more from the baseline.
“I think on the hard courts he can always play a little bit quicker. He can come to the net more. He can mix a little bit more.
“Yeah, it's always been really difficult to play him.”