A Grand Slam title may be eluding Roger Federer for two years but the 33-year-old can't be written off yet, his former coach Tony Roche said here on Tuesday.
“I think he can play as long as he wants to on the mental side. Physically, I think he can play for another four-five years without any problem,” said Roche.
Asked about Federer adding another major to his record 17 titles, Roche said, “Another slam definitely... Obviously, Wimbledon is his best chance but he's knocking on the door in last few slams. As long as the guys still respect Roger, he is always going to be a threat,” the Aussie told reporters on the sidelines of a seven-day camp at the Jaidip Mukherjee Tennis Academy.
“Roger is the most talented player to ever play the game. Working with Roger was a little bit different. I introduced Roger to harder practice sessions, to not only rely on his talent but to put in the hard work. We worked a lot on his second serves and volleys.” With fluent skill that comes so natural to him, the biggest advantage for the Swiss great is to stay injury free, Roche said.
Revealing his former ward's secret to stay injury free, he said: “It's the way he hits the tennis ball so fluently it's not so physical as a lot of the other guys. It's just the way he plays, he does not take much out of him. He is lucky to not have any serious injury over the years. Injuries play an important role in tennis. look at Rafa (Nadal). He's got an unbelievable record but it could have been a lot better if he stayed healthy.”
The 69-year-old will work with the likes of Somdev Devvarman and the Davis Cup team.
“The game is pretty much all power. leander is a very talented flashy player. Now it's more about power with bigger and stronger guys. Having said that look at a guy like (Kei) Nishikori he's doing exceptionally well. He is not a big guy but plays the modern day tennis quite well. I'm saying there's nothing you can't do. But overall, the game has changed. Probably the Indians have struggled a bit. Probably it's because of the physical aspect nowadays.”
India’s No 1 Devvarman said, “I've have learnt a lot in last few practice sessions. One should never compromise on the hard work. When you are around someone like him, I feel like I'm more eager - even though the body shows some tiredness,” as was evident with blisters on his hands after gruelling sessions.