“It’s a bit crazy, to be honest.”
This is how Roger Federer described his latest tactical innovation, which he debuted this year in Cincinnati. And it does look a little crazy at first glance: As his opponent is in the process of hitting his second serve, Federer charges forward, short-hops the ball as it crosses the service line, and keeps charging until he’s virtually draped over the net. Federer said the idea began as a “joke” in practice, but it was no laughing matter for the man he beat in the Cincy final on Sunday, Novak Djokovic. Up 3-1 in the first-set tiebreaker, Federer launched himself forward as Djokovic served, won the point to take a commanding double mini-break lead, and never looked back in earning his 21st win over the world No. 1.
“It’s fun for me,” Federer told ESPN after his 7-6 (1), 6-3 victory. "Playing full-out offense is fun.”
Maybe it’s the roller-coasters across the highway, but fun has always been the operative word for Federer in Cincy, where he has now won a record seven titles. Its hard courts and Penn balls are fast, which he likes; the warm air does good things to his kick serves; and he looks at ease and in command on center stage in the evenings there. Federer’s first Western & Southern Open title came 10 years ago, with a win over Andy Roddick, and he’s won all seven finals he’s played at the event. Who knew a man from Switzerland could become an honorary Ohioan?
This was Federer’s most impressive championship run of them all. He didn’t lose his serve, he didn’t drop a set, and he beat the No. 1 and No. 2 players in the world, Djokovic and Andy Murray, on back-to-back days. Federer never faced a break point against Djokovic, the world’s best returner.
“I think I moved well,” Federer said after earning his 87th ATP title and 24th Masters win. “I was explosive moving forward. Volleys were good. I think from the baseline I was hitting my forehand very well.”