Federer Finds Winning Form In Halle, Haas Honored After Loss
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After a shocking loss last week in his grass opener in Stuttgart to Tommy Haas, Roger Federer got back on track in Halle by trouncing lucky loser Yuichi Sugita 6-3, 6-1 in his opener.
Federer lost just three points all match on his first serve, and only faced one break points, which he saved, in the 52-minute rout.
“I played some good tennis, some nice points. I played the way I wanted to play: aggressive, took charge from the baseline and served well. Overall, I’m very happy,” Federer said.
Federer was scheduled to play Yen-Hsun Lu before a right arm injury ended his hopes of facing the Swiss.
The victory was also Federer’s 1,100 of his career. And as he seeks a ninth Halle title, he’ll next face German Mischa Zverev on Thursday.
Federer good friend and conqueror from last week, Tommy Haas, played his final pro match on grass in Germany. The 39-year-old fell to Bernard Tomic 6-4, 6-4. After the loss, the tournament recognized Haas on court with the special ceremony which included his daughter.
“Walking with Valentina in my arms is always special, but leaving the court this way for the last time is icing on the cake,” said Haas.
“It was very emotional, obviously. You never quite know how to prepare for your last match at an event, especially one that is very close to you and at which you’ve had great success. I’ve really enjoyed coming back here every year.
“I am happy enough to have made the effort to go out there and give it a go, which wasn’t easy. I am very satisfied with the ending. Tournament Director Ralf is someone I have known for a very long time and it’s one of the best tournaments all year.”
Haas will not play after 2017 and said he’s still hoping for a spot at Wimbledon and the US Open, in addition to playing other events.
Kei Nishikori was also a winner outlasting Fernando Verdasco in three sets. Karin Khachanov and Gilles Simon advanced while Ivo Karlovic was sent packing by Russian vet Mikhail Youzhny. And both Zverev brothers were winners.
Dominic Thiem, Bernard Tomic and Zverev are on court tomorrow. Zverev will take on Philipp Kohlschreiber in the marquee match of the day.
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