‘Aggressive’ Roger Federer’s risks pay off against Stefanos Tsitsipas in Basel

ATP Tour
Roger Federer serving in Basel

Roger Federer continued to rack up the milestones at the Swiss Indoors Basel as he beat Stefanos Tsitsipas to reach the final.

With the victory, Federer reached the final for the 15th time and took his winning streak at the event to 23 with his last defeat coming back in 2013.

The 20-time Grand Slam winner also took his winning record for the 2019 season to 50, the 16th time he has done so in his career, as he secured a comfortable 6-4, 6-4 win over Tsitsipas.

Federer broke in game five of the first set and in the opening game of the second set.

“Having the crowd behind you really helps you believe in your game,” he said. “I had to play aggressive and take risks against Stefanos. There was a lot of running. But it’s always easier to play at home, I was energised.”

He added: “He’s one of the fastest players. I’m very excited to be in the final again.

“I was not sure how it would go this week, so I’m really happy.”

Australian Alex de Minaur stands between the 38-year-old and a 10th title as the 20-year-old held off the big-serving Reilly Opelka in three tie-breakers.

World No 28 De Minaur outlasted the American 7-6 (7-2), 6-7 (4-7), 7-6 (7-3) in two hours and 34 minutes.

Opelka served 26 aces to pass the 1,000 aces for the season milestone as he took his tally to 1,014, but it was the Aussie who came out with the W next to his name.

“I can’t wait. It’s my first time here in Basel and it’s been a hell of an experience,” De Minaur said.

“I’ve got my friends with me, so it’s a little bit different and it’s been paying off. I’m really looking forward to coming out tomorrow and having some fun.”

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Roger Federer Stefanos Tsitsipas

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