Federer Begins His 15th Wimbledon Event

Written by: Bob Larson Tennis on 24th June 2013

Federer Begins His 15th Wimbledon Event |

Seven-time champion Roger Federer has begun his 15th edition of Wimbledon with his eyes on a record eighth grass title at the All England Club. The Swiss came into his opener against Victor Hanescu with a 66-7 record at the event which he first won a decade ago to begin his unprecedented run of form.

“I’m very happy to be back, no doubt about it. It’s always a privilege and with big pleasure I come back here, especially with the memories I have from this place, not just from last year but the last 15 years,” said the winner of a record 17 titles at the majors. “I’m happy to be playing. ‘I’m fit. That’s really what matters now sort of 24 hours before my match.”

The 31-year-old won his first grand slam singles crown at Wimbledon a decade ago, a victory which started him on the path to immortality in the sport. “I felt great, I felt like, ‘Here we go, this is a great time in my life.’ I achieved a lifetime dream winning a grand slam, winning the World Tour Finals, reaching number one. For some reason you feel invincible, but then again you have to prove it time and time again, clearly.”

The father of two called the last decade “an unbelievable 10 years. I can’t believe it’s been this successful and this nice in the process. I really enjoyed myself on tour. I made many friends. I started a foundation.

“I’ve continued to be successful. I’ve played so many matches where I went through so many incredible moments. I’m forever grateful to this first Wimbledon title I was able to achieve here. It’s all happened a bit too fast for my liking, but I’m happy I’m still playing and continuing to give myself opportunities to be contending for the title here.”