This archive report was first published on 10 July 2019.
At Wimbledon, Roger Federer is set to face Kei Nishikori in the quarter-finals, a match-up that the Swiss tennis star believes will be a tough one.
Nishikori has made it to the quarter-finals of a major championship for the fourth time in his career, dropping one set or less each time.
He has been relatively low-key this fortnight, having dropped just one set and spent less than nine hours on the court.
Despite Nishikori's recent struggles against Rafael Nadal, Federer expects a tougher opponent when they face off on Wednesday.
"I think it's going to be tough," Federer said. "He's getting into quarters with a lot of energy."
Federer has been impressed by Nishikori's game, praising his backhand and return skills, as well as his mental toughness.
Nishikori knows he has his work cut out against Federer, who is chasing his ninth Wimbledon title.
"I'm sure that I have to play good tennis to beat Roger, because he's the best player on the grass," Nishikori said.
Published on July 10, 2019, at 11:56 AM.
