Wimbledon 2018: Roger Federer feeling 'incredibly sexy' as he sets off to win ninth title
ROGER FEDERER is so relaxed as he sets off in search of his ninth Wimbledon title that he is feeling positively sexy.
Roger Federer BLUSHES after reporter’s compliment
The Swiss master, who once again took the whole of the clay-court season off so he could prepare for the grass, is feeling good – and apparently looking good, as he sashays into the All England Club once again.
Federer gave the customary champion’s press conference on the eve of the tournament yesterday, dressed casually in jacket and slacks, and a swooning journalist told the 36-year-old he looked even more handsome than last year.
“Well thank you,” he replied with a laugh. “How do I feel? I feel great now! I feel incredibly sexy! I mean, I look good, I feel good, so it’s all good!”
Federer comes into the championships as the world No2 and the bookies favourite, and faces Serbian Dusan Lajovic in the opening match on Centre Court today.
It remains a little bit nerve-wracking – it’s a big deal
It may be the eighth time he has raised the curtain on the championships, but he admits the butterflies will still be buzzing.
“It remains a little bit nerve-wracking – it’s a big deal,” he said. “Besides the history and the mythical place that it is, you cannot practice on it. When you come out, there’s a bit of uncertainty for both players, from a very quiet week and site that we’ve seen this week, it’s just packed everywhere.
“The entire atmosphere changes at Wimbledon, and you realise the eyes are on you. That naturally makes you a bit nervous.
“Plus it’s not the second day or something, or a Wednesday sometimes like it used to be at the US Open when you started the tournament. You’re the first one on the show court. It’s always a lot to ask for from the players, but I love it. It’s a massive honour. You try to do your best.”
His chief rival for the title will once again be Rafael Nadal, and the Swiss was asked if their rivalry is similar to that between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi at this summer’s World Cup – although theirs is likely to run a little deeper into the tournament. Ronaldo’s Portugal and Messi’s Argentina were both sent packing from Russie on Saturday.
“There is a comparison. They have a long-standing rivalry, I have the same with Rafa,” said Federer.
“In football it’s different because you are only as good as your team. The pitch is huge, with 11 of them running around. With us, we are a little bit more in control. I hope I can control it a bit better than they could. We’ll see how it goes.”
Nadal opens his campaign tomorrow against Israeli Dudi Sela.