Roger finally wins his first 2013 title!
The final on paper was an easy one, the reality was much different. Youzhny was playing a very good tennis in Halle and the proof is that he conceded only 5 games to Richard Gasquet in the semifinal.
In the the final Michael has never succeeded in breaking the Maestro, but he still managed to win the opening set at the breaker. Roger was battling once again to convert break point (he had 3 in the opening game on a 0-40 scoreline… but not success).
After losing the opener Roger regrouped to break Michael once for each set (2nd and 3rd) and finally win his first title of the season.
From Roger
“I’m very happy. It was a great week for me and my family,” said an elated Roger.
“I thought I played well from the start and I really had to fight for it, in the semis against Tommy Haas and in the finals against Mikhail Youzhny. I think I did well today and they are exactly the kind of wins I need at this part of the season.
I’ve been preparing well for this part of the season and I’m happy it’s paying off. It’s obviously important for my confidence looking forward to Wimbledon now.”
From Youzhny
The Russian commented “It was a good match for me. I played good, but Roger was better today. It was a good tournament for me. I’m happy because I played a lot of matches at the same high level from the first point until the last point.”
McEnroe’s Record
Federer won his 6 title in Halle, but even more important with this victory Roger ties a great John McEnroe with 77 career titles. Great stuff from Maestro!
