In Roger Federer's words: 'I'm disappointed with my Grand Slam results, especially..'

Roger Federer came to Miami 2003 as the finalist from the previous season, hoping for another deep run and beating Luis Horna 6-2, 7-5 in the second round. The top-5 player and the leader in terms of the victories on the Tour that season dominated the court in the opener and scored a late break in set number two to seal the deal before the tie break and book his place in the third round. Asked about his Grand Slam performance, the young Swiss said he was disappointed with his performance in 2002, losing in the first round at both Roland Garros and Wimbledon and failing to reach at least one quarter-final. A year earlier, a teenager was the quarter-finalist in Paris and London, beating Pete Sampras at Wimbledon and losing a tight encounter against Tim Henman in the battle for the semis. Roger couldn't keep that pace 12 months later and was eager to improve that in 2003, seeking the necessary boost at Masters 1000 tournaments and the right form during those Major weeks. 

"I'm disappointed with my Grand Slam results - especially in 2002. I also missed a chance at the Australian Open this year. The only thing that has been missing for me is results at Grand Slams and I can only work hard and play well at smaller events to gain confidence boost that would carry me towards deep runs at the most notable tournaments. People accuse me that I haven't shown yet what I could do but they can only say that about Grand Slams. I've shown it in other events and that's up to the people make up their mind. I'm still learning new things every year; how to make my schedule and pick the right events to play. I usually like to embrace a couple of matches coming into Grand Slams, especially ahead of the Australian Open, because it's the beginning of the season. There are Masters tournaments ahead of Roland Garros and I've got one event before Wimbledon, heading to London earlier to practice and prepare. Hopefully, good things will happen."

from Tennis World USA https://ift.tt/2KWddb7