Roger Federer ‘happy’ with post-US Open from despite shock loss

Roger Federer insists he is pretty happy with where his game is at despite his semi-final exit at the Shanghai Masters.
Playing in his first tournament since suffering a surprise last-16 defeat to John Millman at the US Open, Federer looked to be in good nick for most of the Masters event in China this week.
That was until he came up against an inspired Borna Coric in the semi-final with the Croatian, who also beat him in the Halle final earlier this year, running out a 6-4, 6-4 winner.
The 20-time Grand Slam winner paid tribute to Coric.
“He didn’t give me many chances on his serve, and for me to stay with him, I should have maybe done a better job on my own serve,” he said.
“But then again, it wasn’t bad either. And then in the rallies, I thought he had more punch than me. Maybe it’s a lot of tennis this week, but quite honestly, I’m happy how I’m playing… This was a good week again. I’m happy about my reaction after the US Open.”
He added: “I thought he was better. I think he had more punch on the ball. He served better. I think that’s it.”
As for his own game, Federer emphasised that he was pleased with how he has played since his US Open loss.
“I’m actually happy. I feel like I’m explosive out there, returning well. Serving, I think, it’s okay, could be even a little bit better. I don’t think I played a match where I didn’t get broken, so that’s something a bit more unusual for me,” he said.
“But regardless, I think the court allowed for great ball striking. I felt like I got some great rhythm, whereas in Cincinnati I came out of the tournament, I was, like, ‘I don’t know where my game is. It’s the finals. Not bad. But I couldn’t tell you if I’m hitting the ball well or not’.”
More from Tennis365:
Andy Murray reveals his other passion: helping the stars of the future
How tennis changed from white to yellow tennis balls thanks to David Attenborough
Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic cast doubt over Davis Cup participation
Tennis Today: David Attenborough’s contribution to tennis, Roger Federer’s message of support
Latest
-
Tennis Features
What Novak Djokovic eats in a typical day
Novak Djokovic has revealed exactly what it is that he eats in a typical day.
-
WTA Tour
Simona Halep to return to top ten after reaching Toronto final
Simona Halep and Beatriz Haddad Maia will battle it out for the Toronto Masters title.
-
ATP Tour
Dan Evans battles bravely but Pablo Carreno Busta sets Hubert Hurkacz showdown
The British number two was eventually outlasted 7-5 6-7 6-2 across two hours and 58 minutes.
-
ATP Tour
Andy Murray gets Cinccinati boost, but handed tricky opener against old foe with Cameron Norrie also lurking
Andy Murray handed tough assignment in Cincinnati.
-
ATP Tour
Dan Evans vs Pablo Carreno Busta: How to watch Montreal semis as Evans looks to sneak into ATP top 20
A quick lowdown on the Canadian Masters semi-final and possible ATP Ranking changes.
-
ATP Tour
Rafael Nadal ‘happy to be in Cincy’ as he finds out his path to possible glory at ATP Masters 1000 event
Rafael Nadal good to go in Cincinnati.
-
ATP Tour
Nick Kyrgios ‘doesn’t care’ about records as he admits parents’ illness and fatigue are weighing him down
Nick Kyrgios not concerned about his winning streak coming to an end as he is more worried about his parents.
-
ATP Tour
ATP Cincy draw: Daniil Medvedev and Nick Kyrgios could meet again, Dan Evans in line to face Stefanos Tsitsipas
This way for the draw of the 2022 Western & Southern Open in Cincinnati.
-
WTA Tour
Simona Halep ‘stays strong mentally’ to hold off ‘super nice and future Grand Slam champion’ Coco Gauff
Simona Halep overcomes edgy second set to beat Coco Gauff.