I was lucky enough to catch the two final sets of Federer’s display of brilliance yesterday against poor Devvarman who was equally as much as spectator as the crowd. The final scored said it all: 6-2 6-1 6-1.
When Federer feels as relaxed as he did yesterday and consistently hits the ball in the center of the racquet, it’s one of the biggest thrills to watch in tennis – even when it’s not much of a match. It’s a rare phenomenon that a player’s technique and brilliance can be enough satisfaction on its own in sport where what you usually crave is the FIGHT.
But with Federer things are different. Some of the points he played yesterday was just such a joy to watch – a player in such complete control of his body and his racquet – that he can do whatever he wants with it.
Let’s just hope he keeps playing like this. The next opponent, Julien Benneteau is not going to roll over as easy as Devvarman and the Frenchman has given Federer trouble in the past. Still, Federer looks to be enjoying himself out there so it’s very difficult to picture an upset.
