Third time in his career Roger Federer has faced defeat by a mere qualifier in the tennis history. Almost on verge of winning the former world number on Federer, 35, lost a thrilling battle to Russian qualifier Evgeny Donskoy in Dubai yesterday. My favorite and one of the best players in the grand slam era had match points in the second-set tiebreak but lost the match with 3-6, 7-6 (9/7), 7-6 (7/5).
Federer, who lifted his 18th Grand Slam title at the Australian Open in January this year, was leading at 5-1 in the third-set breaker when the young gun fired right at the Federer to take the match. Donskoy surprised everyone with his power play and determinations. Current world no. 116 had best game plan in store when needed against Federer. For him it was dream come true to defeat Federer and now he will face Lucas Pouille of France in the next round.
Donskoy ended eight-match win streak in 2017 for Federer. While Roger admitted that defeat has nothing got do with his leg injury picked up at the Australian Open but it looks like the old gun has overdone with his health. Federer is looking to make a comeback after playing and winning again but in the meantime young players are ready to take up his challenge.
Roger Federer has a long legacy of being the best player in the world and he still is my favorite & potential to be back at World No. 1. Although Roger claimed to be over of the injury but he need to be in much better shape to play youngsters like Evgeny Donskoy. The year has just began and I wish more success for him.