The Swiss talks about why it is difficult to crack the Millman code.
Photo Source: Mark Peterson / Corleve
Roger Federer has had his hands full with John Millman in their last two meetings at the Slams, the first of course Millmans now famous four-set upset of the Swiss in the fourth round of the 2018 US Open, and the second last night’s stirring five-set win by Federer, which came down the wire.
After the match Federer explained what makes Millman such a tough player to face for him and elaborated on his admiration for the Brisbane native.
“I just think he's just so, so tough from the baseline,” Federer said. “He's got sort of good speed on the backhand, on the forehand. The way he hits it makes it, for me, unsure if I should pull the trigger or I shouldn't. Is it there to be hit or not?
“Every time I get a ball, I'm in two ways, because I have the option to do that with my game, but then he covers the court very well. Because he hits it hard enough, maybe it's harder for me to find angle."
Federer says Millman was able to remain a mystery to him on Friday night by keeping him on the back foot in many of the rallies.
“I think the biggest problem for me was just I wasn't able to get—I was not returning poorly, per se,” he said. “I was just not getting into those neutral rallies, finding the ways to unlock him. That's his credit. He's a great player. … he's got great attitude, and that's why I mumbled something to him at the net just saying, I have so much respect for you, and it's such a pity, I'm so sorry, but well played, and all that stuff, because I really feel that way for John.’”
In the end Federer was able to sneak away with the victory in four hours and three minutes, despite 82 unforced errors and trailing 8-4 in the final-set super tiebreak.
Though it was grueling, Federer made it clear after the match that he enjoys being involved in epic battles, whether he’s able to finagle away the win or not.
“I think if I do play tennis it's because of winning titles, trying to win as many matches as possible, enjoy myself out on court but also being in epic matches like this,” he said. “Doesn't always have to be finals, I guess. As long as the crowds are into it, you have a great battle with an opponent who you really admire and respect, it's a good feeling. I'm happy I had that match tonight. I hope I would feel the same way also if I would have lost, to be honest.”
