Roger Federer: Swiss star wary of Jack Sock ahead of ATP World Tour Finals opener
ROGER FEDERER says he is expecting Jack Sock to be a tough opponent when the two meet in the opening singles match of the ATP World Tour Finals.
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Federer, a six-time winner of the season-ending event, starts his campaign for a seventh title against the American debutant today.
The 36-year-old has a 3-0 head to head lead over Sock with their last duel in March when Federer won 6-1 7-6 at the BNP Paribas Open semi-finals in Indian Wells.
But Sock will begin his tilt at the trophy in excellent form having won the Paris Masters last weekend.
And Federer says he knows Sock is capable of causing an upset.
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Jack's confident and likes the big stage. I know that from the good match we had in Indian Wells. I can expect a tough one
"I don't look at the other 12 matches I won against these guys [in Group Boris Becker], my focus is solely on Jack Sock," said Federer.
"He had a wonderful week in Paris. He was almost out in the first round against Kyle Edmund and then ends up winning the whole thing.
“He's confident and likes the big stage. I know that from the good match we had in Indian Wells. I can expect a tough one.”
Roger Federer beat Jack Sock in Indian Wells
Sock, who has had the most successful year of his career, is the first American since 2011 to play at the ATP World Tour Finals and he is looking forward to showcasing his quality.
"I've never played a format like this, but it's nice having the guaranteed matches," said Sock.
"If the first one doesn't go well, you have your next two to make the semis. It's nice for sure.
“I think I have a fairly entertaining game, so I’m definitely looking forward to showcasing it and getting out there this weekend and into next week."