Roger Federer is still competitive with the best in the men's game, says Pete Sampras.
Sampras, who along with Federer played in the International Tennis Premier League (ITPL), described the 17-time Grand Slam champion as "an icon for our sport." Sampras owned the record for men’s Grand Slam singles titles until Federer moved in front with 15, and sees the Swiss adding to his achievements. "He has put up some huge numbers there in a career that has been so phenomenal," said Sampras. And this year he added the Davis Cup. He is 33 and he is getting stronger day by day."
The American liked what he saw from Federer during their matches in the new league. "I have watched him play and he is so smooth in his shot-making and he has got all the desire he had all this while. He is smooth and confident and I do not see him slowing down as yet. And now that he is so close, being number one in the world again will be a huge goal for him.
"In the near future I don’t see Federer slowing down. As a player it is pure pleasure watching him."
Sampras and Federer were on the same team during the third leg of the league, which consists of four teams competing in four Asian cities during a two-week period.