Roger Federer
November 21, 2004

Roger Federer is a phenomenon, the best tennis player in the world by far. That is an obvious to everyone. Not only is he in a class of his own in terms of tennis skills, but in terms of the mental aspects as well. Like Pete was in his prime, he is also the best clutch player on the tour, a player who can raise his game at the most crucial times, he knows he is better than the rest, and the rest know he is better than they are.

Since Federer has been recognized as THE PLAYER of his generation, some of the press began to describe him as the best player ever and tagged him as a serious threat to break Pete’s record of 14 Grand Slam titles. Well, as a Pete Sampras fan, I pretty much agree with those statements.

I have no doubt Pete at his prime (1997) would have been tougher than any opponent Federer has in these days. However, Federer is yet to reach his prime, and when he will, in about 3 years from now, I assume I will give him the edge even against Pete.

Regarding breaking the Grand Slam record, for me it is only a question of Federer keeping himself healthy. Injuries free, I can’t see how it will not happen. I see in Federer the will and the desire to do so. He can say whatever he wants to the media, but like Pete, he wants to end his career as the greatest ever and as the holder of the most prestigious record.

As for opponents who have the ability to beat Federer in an important match on a non clay surface, there is no such. Safin, Roddick or Hewitt are not good enough to do so. Safin and Roddick have a poor net game which Federer explores every time in their encounters, while Hewitt just doesn’t have enough fire power. As for a junior player who may rise in the near future, for me it is hard to believe. Players like Federer and Sampras do not come in bunches.

For me, even if Federer would go down as the best player ever (what will probably happen), he would never be able to reach Pete's greatness. Leaving the tennis skills aside, what Pete did on the court will not be matched. Pete was capable to do things no one else could, including Federer. He left you in disbelief not only with his tennis but also with his courage, heroism and stamina. He was such a unique phenomenon, that 99% of the media never recognized it, and, sadly, never will.



References:

The Sampras-Federer Count

Pete Sampras' Resume of Greatness

Who is the greatest tennis player of all time



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