VIDEO | Roger Federer turns back clock at net against Stan Wawrinka who stands applauding
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When Roger Federer touches a tennis racquet, we have come to expect something special. Playing in, what appears to be his last French Open, Federer showed the athleticism of a teenager to win a point at the net against Stan Wawrinka who just stood speechless while applauding across the net.
Having missed two opportunities to wrap up the third set in the 10th game, Federer was put under some serious pressure by Wawrinka in the next. Not only did Federer have to save two break points but also had to stretch his legs for almost ten minutes to win the game and stay in contention for the tie-breaker.
Serving first, Federer took the first point when Wawrinka miscued a second serve return well wide of the court. Knowing fully well that he could not allow Federer to get ahead of steam, Wawrinka went towards Federer’s backhand only to see his compatriot return it deep. Wawrinka kept it alive and looked to have gained a strong footing in the game when he returned a cross-court shot with one of his own.
However, Federer upped the ante with a deep down the line shot and instantly approached the net. Wawrinka sliced the ball cross court and turned quickly enough to make a run for the ball on the other side. Not only did Wawrinka get to the ball but he also managed to connect brilliantly for the down the line attempt. Federer, though, somehow managed to twist his body and get his racquet to the ball and secure the point. As the crowd erupted, Wawrinka stood there stunned before applauding his compatriots’ brilliance.
