Roger Federer: ´The end of the match against Verdasco reminded me of the semi-final with Djokovic where I lost´

A statistic which struck the game of Roger Federer against Fernando Verdasco was him winning 26 points scored out 27 at the net. The Swiss tries to analyze precisely this fact:

"I did not think I was so significant at the net, sometimes it came along but I did not need to hit the volley. I tried to be aggressive as I had been against Phau in the second match. In that case I lost more points than expected but I have not lost faith. Moreover, the conditions of the game helped me a lot, everything was much faster than in the evening."

Just yesterday, Spanish media reported that Nadal probably will not return to competition until next year:

"I actually did speak to Rafa and we never talked about his knee problem. We’ll see each other often but usually either he's busy or I am. We have a very honest relationship. When I ask 'how are you?' if he is not feeling well he tells me, if I have any problem I do not hide it. Now between us there is nothing secret because we know each other very well. Our relationship is based on trust. Now you're telling me that he might not return before 2013? That is not good news but it was definitely a possibility so I'm not particularly shocked. I continue to remain confident and I hope he can come back soon. "

It was evident that Federer was struggling with a cough and cold at the press conference at which he was asked how he felt:

"I believe that in this country there is too much air conditioning. (Laughter) In recent weeks I have had a stuffy nose but I'm not terrible. I played in the sun but it was so hot for me, it was very windy. However its not a problem, I'm happy with my performance. "

The discussion then turned to the Davis Cup as Switzerland is committed to travel to Amsterdam in the Netherlands, but the number 1 in the world has not yet made a decision about it:

"I shall communicate soon about my presence whether I will play or not. The games will be played on outdoor clay for and it will be difficult to win, playing against Holland is always complicated. "

In the match against Verdasco, despite it being a third round match, he was reminded of the semifinals last year against Djokovic,

"Yes, it's true. It reminded me a lot of that match. I do not even know why, it is a matter of feeling. I think there was a similar atmosphere. When I entered the court, I saw the whole audience standing up and cheering. I went to serve for the match and there was plenty of sunshine as in 2011. The only difference was that I won the last game so I'm happy. "