FEDERER READY FOR EUROPE

Despite a narrow defeat to Kei Nishikori in the Sony Open Tennis quarter-finals on Wednesday, Roger Federer leaves Crandon Park without complaints about the state of his game.

“[I feel] good overall,” said Federer. “If I look at the big picture since the beginning of the year, I'm very pleased with how I'm playing.”

The 32 year old spent most of last season nursing a back injury, but on a cool evening in Miami, Federer encountered no problems in his 3-6, 7-5, 6-4 loss to the Japanese No. 1.

“Today in the cold it was also a good test, for my back and my body," shared Federer. "It was no problem, even though I do feel very different now because it was quite cool out on the court.”


The World No. 5, a two-time champion in Miami, has compiled a 22-4 record for the season, including a title in Brisbane (d. Hewitt) and reaching Indian Wells final (l. to Djokovic).

“It’s a good start to the season, no doubt. I want to keep it up now for Geneva when I play next week.”

Federer's stop in Switzerland will be for the country's Davis Cup World Group quarter-finals tie against Kazakhstan, which he'll contest alongside countryman Stanislas Wawrinka. After playing at home on the indoor Rebound Ace, Federer will make the switch to European clay, and then grass.

“The clay is something I have always enjoyed throughout my career,” Federer shared. “It's what I grew up playing on.

“I like the changes of continents and surfaces and all that. This is the last jet lag we have to fight for five months or so. The beginning is tough when we go to Australia and then West Coast [for Indian Wells]; Dubai, as well.”

Federer hinted at his schedule for the next few months, especially in light of his wife, Mirka, due to give birth in July 2014.

“Last year was a nice change with Hamburg and Gstaad. I don't think I will do that again this year, but we will see what I'll be able to play, depending on my wife.”

“I'm going to look forward to [playing in] Europe in general.”


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