Roger Federer shocks fans with furious foul-mouthed outburst
Roger Federer is now a step closer to his 100th career title, after facing a challenging match on Friday against Marton Fucsovics at the Dubai Championships.
The seven-time champion beat the Hungarian athlete 7-6 (8-6) 6-4 in less than ideal conditions which included intense winds and brief rain delays – forcing the normally calm Federer to lose his cool.
His frustration was evident as the 20-time grand slam winner swore so loudly at one point that the umpire hit him with a code violation.
“It was tricky. A couple of rain delays, especially one at five-all, coming back with sort of no preparation, you just have to serve,” said the Swiss player.
“We made the most of it. The tiebreaker was tough. I’m happy I found a way to get out of that one. That was an exciting match, to say the least.”
The 37-year-old is now set to face either Croatian player Borna Coric or Nikoloz Basilashvili of Georgia in the last four.
“You look at the score at home and it looks like an easy straight sets,” he said.
“But it’s so close, you can never underestimate anyone. I’m very happy with my level. It was tough with the wind, but it’s a challenge and that’s why I’m here.”
Federer had to secure two set points in an hour-long opener, as he was faced with tough conditions from the get-go. He ended up finishing with nine winners compared to an enormous 21 unforced errors.
He then found his momentum taking a 5-4 lead.
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