Federer One Win From No. 1 Ranking; Dimitrov v Rublev Friday
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Roger Federer knocked off fellow veteran and good friend Philipp Kohlschreiber 7-6(8), 7-5 to reach the Rotterdam quarterfinals and move within just one match win of returning to No. 1, a position he hasn’t held in five years.
In his way will be Robin Haase.
The 36-year-old is set to become the oldest No. 1 in ATP ranking history. The last time the Swiss held No. 1 was back on October 4, 2012.
Federer took a late wildcard into the event. He now leads Kohlschreiber 13-0 and has won both career meetings against Haase.
Also, Grigor Dimitrov won by a nearly identical score as Federer, defeating Filip Krajinovic 7-6(4), 7-5.
“I’m just trying to find my rhythm around the court right now,” Dimitrov said. “I played well in the first set by winning the most important points. It’s great to get a win on those days you aren’t playing that well; it gives you confidence.”
Russian youngsters Daniil Medvedev and Andrey Rublev were also victorious. Rublev will now face Dimitrov while Medvedev meets Andreas Seppi.
On the other quarterfinal, Tomas Berdych will take on David Goffin.
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