Federer Watches His Health Closely

Written by: Staff on 3rd January 2012

Qatar ExxonMobil ATP Open Tennis tournament 2012

Federer Watches His Health Closely

Roger Federer of Switzerland in action against Nikolay Davydenko of Russia during their tennis match in the second round at the Qatar ExxonMobil ATP Open Tennis tournament at Khalifa Tennis and Squash Complex in Doha, Qatar, 03 January 2012 EPA/STRINGER |

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While Rafael Nadal once enjoyed the reputation as a tennis ironman, it may actually be rival Roger Federer who has the edge in physical staying power over the Spanish specimen. Federer admitted that he’s often played through pain during his world-beating career as he seeks to start the ATP season at Doha in the Gulf.

“I never worry at moments like now that I won’t hold up for the entire season,” said the Swiss holder. “I plan decently and well, so I manage all the expectations for myself. Sometimes you just go through tougher moments.

“It’s part of a good player, being able to put that aside and still play good tennis. I promise you I had a lot of pain throughout my career, and I’ve managed to play with it.”

The 30-year-old comes into the season with a 17-match win streak which resulted in titles at his last three 2011 events at Basle, Paris and the World Tour Finals in London. He says that is due to the way he looks well into the future and not just week-to-week.

“You must look at the big picture, longevity, not just thinking in the very moment. I didn’t panic after some really tough losses through the summer (he held two match points against Novak Djokovic in a brutal US Open semi-final).

“I was able to actually not only just maintain a good level of play but I almost increased it towards the end of the season, I’m happy to see I’m holding up well. I definitely think that’s a key to success, as much as playing well and being well prepared.”

©”DAILY TENNIS NEWS WIRE”