Roger Federer: Rafa Is Only Going To Be Better

Speaking Thursday, Roger Federer assessed the recent revival of Rafael Nadal, saying the Spaniard will continue his climb back into contention for Grand Slams and the top ranking.

“I think he’s only going to get better,” Federer said of Nadal. “’16 he’s going to have a good season if he stays healthy.

“Okay, maybe for his standard it’s not the best season. What is he going to finish, top five? It’s still a good season. Everybody would take it almost except maybe a few players at this tournament. The rest would all love to be in his shoes.

“I think he’s going to get stronger. In the backhand he showed what’s to come in ’16, in my opinion. Then with some time to practice and reassess his game, he’s going to be tough to beat in Australia. I believe that.”

Federer recently beat his rival in the Basel final. Despite his loss today to Novak Djokovic, Nadal won three matches over Top 10 players this week and he finished the season winning 17 of his last 22 matches.

Later today, Federer meets countryman Stan Wawrinka for a spot a the finals against Djokovic tomorrow.