Roger Federer’s shock Miami Open defeat is down to just one factor
ROGER FEDERER’S shock defeat in the Miami Open was down to his loss in the final at Indian Wells.
Roger Federer will now lose his world No 1 ranking
Those are the thoughts of Sky Sports pundit Peter Fleming.
Federer was hoping to get to the latter stages of the Miami Open after missing out on a third title of 2018 when he was overcome by Juan Martin del Potro in the BNP Paribas final last Sunday.
However, the Swiss legend made an early exit from Crandon Park after he was outdone by Thanasi Kokkinakis in the second round last night.
Federer looked to be cruising after taking the opening set 6-3.
For Roger [Federer], this match was a little too close on the heels from his defeat at Indian Wells
But Kokkinakis had other ideas and took the match to a decider and prevailed in a tie-break.
The win ensured Kokkinakis became the lowest ranked player to beat the world No 1 in 15 years.
It also blew the tournament wide open after Novak Djokovic lost on Friday night.
And Fleming thinks Indian Wells played on Federer’s mind and he was unable to lift his game.
Thanasi Kokkinakis produced the upset of the tournament
Federer pulls off amazing behind-the-back volley at Miami Open
He said: “For Roger [Federer], this match was a little too close on the heels from his defeat at Indian Wells and no doubt he will head home and enjoy a few weeks’ rest.”
Fleming hailed Kokkinakis after his win, adding: “What a terrific performance. Kokkinakis played better and better as the last two sets ensued.
“I’m sure nobody will be begrudge him with all the injury problems he’s gone through.”
Federer, who only became world No 1 last month after winning the Rotterdam Open, will be usurped by Rafael Nadal when the rankings are published in a couple of weeks.