Roger Federer taking comfort from one thing ahead of Rotterdam Open second round clash
ROGER FEDERER is under no illusion about the threat that Philipp Kohlschreiber will pose when the two collide At the ABN AMRO World Tennis Tournament in Rotterdam, but insists he can take comfort from one thing.
Roger Federer hopes to win world number one title
Federer, who will usurp Rafael Nadal and become the new World No 1 should he reach the semi-finals, began his campaign in style with a routine 6-1, 6-2 win over Ruben Bemelmans.
The Swiss legend could also become the oldest man to top the ATP rankings since Andre Agassi, is undefeated from 12 meetings against Kohlschreiber.
And Federer will have fond memories of when he last took on Kohlschreiber at the US Open last year where he prevailed in straight sets in the fourth round.
The 36-year-old admits he will have to adjust quickly from facing a left-hander to a right-hander, but thinks the win against Kohlschreiber will hold him in good stead.
I enjoy playing against Philipp (Kohlschreiber), I played really good against him at the US Open so I hope I can keep that up tomorrow night
“It's a different match, changing from lefty to righty,” said Federer.
“I just hope I can play a good match. It is a sprint to the finish.
“The beginning will be crucial tomorrow, you don't want to fall behind, you want to stay focussed all the way.
"Any lapses could mean that you get in trouble. “But, I enjoy playing against Philipp (Kohlschreiber), I played really good against him at the US Open so I hope I can keep that up tomorrow night.”
Federer meanwhile, has had his path to the semi-finals cleared by his compatriot Stan Wawrinka who suffered a shock first round defeat on Tuesday.
The pair could have met at the quarter-final stage, but Wawrinka was dumped out by unfancied Dutchman Tallon Griekspoor in three sets.