Halle Hopes To Have A Federer-Nadal Match

Written by: Bob Larson Tennis on 14th May 2013

Halle Hopes To Have A Federer-Nadal Match

epa03690887 Swiss tennis player Roger Federer returns the ball to Czech Radek Stepanek during their second round match of the Madrid Open tennis tournament at the Caja Magica tennnis centern in Madrid, central Spain, 07 May 2013. EPA/JUAN CARLOS HIDALGO |

The men’s world rankings now might suggest otherwise but the prospect of a tussle between Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal still is one of the most exciting billings in sport. And this year’s Gerry Weber Open in Halle is hopeful of staging a grass court collision between the two superstars that will stick in the memory.

Once again the German tournament staged June 8 thru 16 will be trying to take the grass court focus away from West London as the AEGON Championships at London’s Queen’s Club is being billed as the traditional Wimbledon curtain raiser.

The Gerry Weber International clothing company, views the inauguration of the German tournament in 1993 as one of the best decisions the company has taken. So Dr. David Frink, a member of the board of the fashion group, speaking at the press conference, was emphatic when he said: “We are therefore delighted that our contract with the Gerry Weber Open could recently be extended for five more years until end of 2017.

“This top sporting event has not only encouraged an awareness level of the Gerry Weber brand virtually all over the country – research puts it at over 80% – but it also made for a ‘positive emotional charge’ among customers and business partners.”

Tournament director Ralf Weber is hoping for a great tournament and said: “Roger and Rafa head a fantastic array of participants, and are well ahead at the top of the list of favorites.”

Federer will be aiming to win back the title he lost out to Germany’s own Tommy Haas last year and said: “I am looking forward to my return to Halle.

“This tournament means something very special to me, I always want to play well in front of my numerous fans here. Ten years ago, my international career took off with a first tournament victory in Halle, and three weeks later I became the first man to do the grass court double of winning Halle and Wimbledon in the same year.

“Now it’s time to get the cup in Halle once again. Success in Halle definitely gives you the required self-belief and even greater confidence for Wimbledon. However, the Gerry Weber Open, competition has become much stronger over the last few years.”

Tournament director Weber is convinced Nadal’s resurgent form will continue on Halle’s grass after last year signing a three year deal to contest the tournament.

“I am sure Rafa will hurl himself into the fight for the cup energetically and full of passion,’ Weber added. ‘He was also enthusiastic about his stay in Halle last year, about the enthusiasm of the fans, about the contagiously good atmosphere, so we very much look forward to his appearance.”