These days in the tennis world, recharged Federer is the talk of the town. He just lost tough final against hard hitting Djokovic at Indian Wales. He was denied his record 5th title of ATP BNP Paribas, yet he won many hearts.
Since the beginning of this year, he is looking as threatening as he was. . Last year, he won a minor title only. 2013 was his least productive year for 13 years. Injuries troubled him. His back pain increased with each passing day. Due to it, he took a long 7 week break in the spring. After the Wimbledon, he remained out of action for a long time. In the meantime, his rankings dipped to new low. Many people suggested that he has got everything from the tennis and he should retire gracefully now. Federer listened but kept going.
His fortunes revived after his association with Stefan Edberg. He hired him as his personal coach in the beginning of this year. Edberg as a player was known for 2 qualities, icy head and the talisman game of serve & volley. He was one of those few players who announced his retirement a year in advance. He kept his word and retired from international tennis at a high note.
Under his guidance, Federer is only climbing up in the ATP rankings. On his advice, he starts playing with a larger racket. He is approaching the net quite often. His backhands improved drastically.
Last year, he dipped to low rank of 8. This year, his record speaks clearly. He is 19-3 this year. His only 3 losses have come in final of Brisbane, SF of Australian open and final of BNP Paribas at Indian Wales. Among all the players of the circuit, his form against top 10 players is most impressive (4-2).
His victory at Dubai was the shout of his revival. He stunned Djokovic (World no. 2) and Berdych (World no. 6) in back to back victories in semi finals and final. This was his 6th title at Dubai and 78th overall. It gave him 500 ATP points and much needed old confidence.
Djokovic praised him open heartedly after defeating him in the final at Indian Wales. He said that he is playing as good as he was 14 months before. He is serving well and his forehands are firing again.
Roger is happy. He is competing in tournament week after week. Currently, he is competing in Sony Ericsson open at Miami. Injuries are not troubling him anymore and he is playing with consistency. His movements, serves and shots are full of confidence again. He moved up to 5th spot in ATP ranking. Both David ferrrer and fellow countryman Wawrinka are in his reach. If he continues to play such quality tennis then he can climb up to 3rd rank, the position he lost in June. The hunger of 17 times Grand Slam champion is back. Fedex from Basel is running again at full speed.