LONDON:
Andy Murray admitted only his perfect game will be good enough to defeat six-time champion Roger Federer in today’s Wimbledon final and become Britain’s first men’s champion in 76 years.
But standing in his way is 30-year-old Federer, the 16-time Grand Slam title winner written off as a spent-force by many in the sport, who can equal Pete Sampras’ record of seven Wimbledon triumphs today. Victory would also put Federer back on top of the world rankings after a two-year absence.
“I just need to try and make sure I play a perfect match today against Federer,” said Murray. “It obviously would be very nice to beat him against all odds, but I can’t allow myself to think that far ahead.”
Murray believes he can thrive on being the underdog against Federer who will be playing in a record eighth Wimbledon final.
“He’s one of the greatest players ever to have played the game. He’s been doing it consistently over a number of years. It’s a great challenge, one where I’m probably not expected to win, but one that, if I play well, I’m capable of winning.”
Despite the last of Federer’s 16 Grand Slam titles having come over two years ago at the 2010 Australian Open, the Swiss maestro believed he won’t feel a sense of desperation.
“I’m in a good place mentally and you have got to be that for the finals of a Grand Slam,” said Federer. “There’s a lot on the line for me. I’m not denying that. I have a lot of pressure, as well. I’m looking forward to that. That’s what I work hard for.”
Published in The Express Tribune, July 8th, 2012.
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