Roger Federer receives an easy pass to the semifinal.
The Swiss Maestro looked at his very best against Richard Gasquet in the quarters… at least in the 1st set. In fact, after a couple of games it was clear that the Frenchman was struggling against an in-form Federer and eventually Richard had to bend to a problem to his back. The Swiss won the 1st set in just 20 minutes and it was time for Gasquet to retire (it was 6-1 for Roger).
Federer: I know enough about the back
Roger’s only physical problem is his back, so he definitely has some experience on that “I know enough about the back, and I know how horrible it is to play with that and how much worse it can sometimes become. It’s maybe better not to take any chances at this point.
I think I played well. I served well. Then again, the test was so short that it’s tough to judge on a 20-minute match. But, you know, I think I was hitting the ball well again, like yesterday. I felt able to play aggressive and do what I was hoping to do, so I was very pleased, actually.”
The semi vs. Coric
Roger will play Borna Coric in the semifinal. The teenager had an incredible win against Andy Murray (6-1 6-3). Federer commented “He seems to really play up when it matters against the better players. Today I think it was a great victory. I didn’t see any of the match, so I can’t tell about Murray’s level. But regardless of the level, to beat Murray 6-1, 6-3, it was, it’s a great score. Because historically Murray has played very well here in Dubai. It’s definitely a message I get.”
This will be the first time that Borna and Roger play each other. The Swiss is the overwhelming favorite for a place in the final.
