Roger Federer was unbelievably talented already in 2001 - Costa
Albert Costa faced Roger Federer five times, winning the first two times in 2001. In an exclusive interview with Tennis World USA, the Spaniard recalled his meetings with the Swiss. "In the beginning, he was not as strong as today but you could see he was unbelievably talented. You knew that if he improved his mental strength, he would have become world number one", said Costa.
Costa also faced a then 16-year-old Rafael Nadal at the 2003 Monte Carlo Masters. "I knew he had an amazing talent and mentality, at the time you do not know what he is capable off but you could see something special."
On Federer likely to miss Rome, Costa added: "I thought he would play two Masters 1000s prior to the French Open, but I do not know if he will play in Rome."
Asked if Djokovic can end his career holding more Grand Slam titles than Federer and Nadal, Costa replied: "It's a possibility. It's not easy. He is younger, let's see what happens this year with them. They are unbelievable players."
In an interview, Costa said that after his maiden Grand Slam title at the 2002 French Open, his motivation dropped. Djokovic, Federer and Nadal keep instead of being at the top after 15 years. "I am different than them (laughter). I have had a good career but they have a timeless ambition and motivation, they play for history and they are three unbelievable athletes", he concluded.
from Tennis World USA http://bit.ly/2vcJHWD
No comments