Federer, back in form after Halle title, says he's fit for Wimbledon

Roger Federer says he is match tough again going into Wimbledon, having destroyed Alexander Zverev, 6-1, 6-3, to win his ninth title in Halle.

The 35-year-old Federer did not play during the clay-court season and was competing in just his second event since winning in Miami.

“It gives me great confidence,” Federer said. “Of course, I'm like on cloud nine right now after the ninth win here in Halle. It’s great to get off to a good start in the finals and then remind yourself that you've been playing good tennis all week.

“You start swinging freely, things start clicking, you realize your opponent is under pressure and you keep pressuring him ... It was by far my best match of the week. After my long break I'm feeling excellent, and it's a pleasure to be back and I'm fit for Wimbledon.”

This season, the 18-time Grand Slam champion has won the Australian Open, Indian Wells, Miami and now Halle. But two weeks ago he fell to Tommy Haas in his opener in Stuttgart, which slightly affected his confidence.

"I was doubting myself a little bit, I must admit, because losing in the opening round for the first time in 15 years on grass was always going to shake me a little bit, and it did,” he said. "So I'm happy to react right away ... It's a boost for me personally, with my confidence, knowing that my body is in good shape. Mentally, I'm fresh again and I've gotten used to match play."

The 20-year-old Zverev said that Federer played “unbelievable” and wouldn’t allow the German to control him.

“I think going into Wimbledon he's going to be, probably, the favorite to win the whole thing,” the world No. 12 said. “So credit to him, he played an unbelievable match. Of course I could have played better, but he didn't really let me play my best tennis. He messed with the ball a lot. He played very aggressive.”

The win is also projected to promote the No. 5-ranked Federer to No. 3 in the Wimbledon seedings.

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