Roger Federer Motivated By Facing Top 10 Players At ATP Finals

Roger Federer spoke to the press yesterday at the ATP Finals. The six-time tournament champion is playing in his 14th ATP Finals event, and he’s as motivated as ever.

“I haven’t had issues being motivated for this tournament,” said Federer who is 11-5 against Top 10 players this year. “I looked forward to it and as it was a priority I played better.

“The idea of playing fellow Top 10 rivals gets me going, gets me really excited. I don’t relax on making it to the Finals, then go out and lose three crushing defeats. I don’t want to finish the year that way.”

As he seeks a 7th crown, Federer hasn’t won the title since 2011. And he’s in a tough group with Novak Djokovic, Tomas Berdych and Kei Nishikori, though he does have a winning record against all three.

“All the players that are here have achieved the goal,” said Federer. “It is a big goal to be here, the atmosphere is great. It is prestigious, one of the best events.”

Federer opens play Sunday against Berdych. Last year he had to withdraw from the finals due to a back injury.