By Chris Oddo | Friday February 16, 2018
Roger Federer came back from a set down against Robin Haase to reach the Rotterdam semis and reclaim the ATP's No.1 ranking for the fourth time.
Photo Source: AP
Roger Federer continued his assault on tennis’ record books on Friday by defeating Robin Haase 4-6, 6-1, 6-1 to become the oldest World No.1 in ATP history. The Swiss, who first climbed to the top of the ATP rankings in February of 2004, will move to No.1 in next week’s rankings for the first time since November 4, 2012.
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Federer found himself in some trouble on Friday when the Dutchmen snatched the first set by claiming a break for 5-4 and holding serve in the next game.
But things quickly unraveled for Haase and he only managed two games the rest of the way as Federer took control, dropping only seven points on serve and converting all five break points he saw in the final two sets.
There was little Haase could do to add drama down the stretch. He appeared to be ailing physically and repeatedly attempted high-risk tactics to no avail.
Haase double-faulted on Federer’s first match point to kick off a celebration in Rotterdam, with a standing ovation and Swiss flags waving about in the rafters.
The Swiss took part in an elaborate ceremony after the match, as fans looked on and savored the moment. “What an amazing run it’s been and a journey it’s been for me,” said Federer. “So to clinch World No.1 again this following Monday here in Rotterdam really means a lot to me.”
“I think reaching No.1 is one of if not the ultimate achievement in our sport,” he added. “When you are older you feel like you have to put maybe sometimes double the work in, so this one maybe means the most to me throughout my career, getting to No.1 and enjoying it right here at 36 almost 37 years old is an absolute dream come true—I can’t believe it.”
Federer not only becomes the oldest No.1 in ATP history, he also breaks the record for longest gap between stints at No.1 at over five years. Additionally, his span of holding the No.1 is the longest of any player, as he will claim the top ranking 14 years after he originally became No.1.
Federer will face either Daniil Medvedev or Andreas Seppi in the semifinals on Saturday. David Goffin and Grigor Dimitrov will meet in the the other semifinal. Goffin advanced when he was handed a walkover from Tomas Berdych due to illness; Dimitrov defeated Rublev 6-3, 6-4.