Fedex hails amazing Rafa return

Roger Federer hailed Rafael Nadal’s barnstorming return to duty as ‘amazing’ on Friday before turning his attentions to his own ironman efforts which see him playing in a 54th consecutive Grand Slam. Nadal, bidding for an unprecedented eighth French Open title, is the overwhelming favourite, having won six titles in eight finals since resuming his career after a seven-month injury lay-off.

‘His level of play compares to what he’s done always. I think the results show how good he’s playing. It’s nice to see him so strong,’ said Federer who got a close-up of that strength in a Rome Masters final mauling last weekend. That took his career record against Nadal to 10 wins against 20 losses.

‘You know, eight out of eight finals of eight tournaments. It’s amazing. I’m sure he’s very happy, and super confident going into the French Open.’ Federer won the title at Roland Garros in 2009, the year when Nadal suffered a shock fourth round loss to Robin Soderling still his only defeat in 52 matches on Paris’ red clay. y comparison, Federer, with his 32nd birthday fast approaching, has enjoyed a relatively injury-free career and this French Open will be his 54th successive major.

’It’s incredible. I never thought I was going to play that many, have that many opportunities to do well at the Slams,’ said Federer.