• ATP Tour

Federer predicts 'classic' season in 2011

ESPN staff
November 29, 2010
Roger Federer won the year-end title for a record-equalling fifth time © Getty Images
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Roger Federer believes the 2011 season will be a "classic" for men's tennis.

Federer beat Rafael Nadal to win the ATP World Tour Finals for a record-equalling fifth time, and after enduring a difficult mid-season, the 16-time grand slam champion is confident he has returned to his best.

Federer will attempt to defend his Australian Open title in January, with Nadal bidding to become the first man to hold all four majors at once since Rod Laver in 1969.

And with the likes of Andy Murray and Robin Soderling still chasing their first grand slam, Federer predicts another exciting year on the ATP Tour.

"I think we can really look forward to another classic season in men's tennis," Federer told CNN.

"I start with a lot of pressure, having to defend the Australian Open. Rafa doesn't have that, he's going in with pressure trying to win his fourth in a row, so I think there's a lot at stake."

Federer's victory in London was only Federer's eighth win over Nadal in 22 meetings, and he was delighted to end the year on a high. Federer also defeated Brit Andy Murray in the round-robin stages before easing past world No. 3 Novak Djokovic in the semi-finals.

"Obviously it makes it extra special, playing Rafa and beating him in the final," Federer said. "For me it is a great finish to the season. To beat all my closest rivals Murray, Djokovic and Rafa in this tournament has been fantastic."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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