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August 31, 2006
'I'm an extremely balanced person'
...says world No. 1 tennis sensation Roger Federer, in an exclusive interview.
By Dipannita Ghosh Biswas, The Times of India
Swiss tennis star Roger Federer has matured into the world's No. 1 tennis sensation after shedding his former image as a tantrum-tossing youngster. Excerpts of an interview.
You are the youngest to win 40 titles. And you also hold the record of the third longest stay as World No.1. Is this a top-of-the-world feeling?
It is great to be so young and yet have 40 titles and also be no. 1 in the world already. That's a lot together but trust me, it's a lot of hard work and a big commitment too.
What has been your biggest defeat till date and how do you take criticism?
There was no big defeat for me. I'm very happy with all my results, moreover I do not take a tennis match as a huge defeat. Every time I lose a match, I get to learn something and it gives me even more experience. I can handle criticism quite well.
Most of your defeats seem to be against Nadal...
It is really hard to play against a leftie. Added to that, his defence is very good...
Is there any set ritual that you follow on court?
No nothing of that sort.
What do you think is your biggest drawback and advantage?
None, I think. I'm a very complete player.
What's your view on the tennis scene in India?
Sania Mirza is doing well and she is very talented. For years, India had great players on the men's side with Paes and Bhupathi. But I hope that more young players will be following the sport, as it's great to have tennis stars from India.
How much effort do you put in to maintain your rank?
Tennis comes first and I do work very hard to stay at the top!
After all these years, do you actually predict your opponents' moves by now?
I prefer not playing by game, but by now, yes, a little.
How different is Federer, the man from Federer, the tennis champ?
As on the court, so also in life, I'm an extremely balanced and a very happy person!
Away from the tennis front, what's the news on your personal front?
I will just be playing tennis for the next couple of years!
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