Roger Federer hailed Alexander Zverev as the complete package after beating the German up-and-comer to book his place in the last four of the ATP Finals. The Zverev, 20, showed London's O2 Arena why he will surely become a star of men's tennis one day but Federer's own time is far from finished yet and his class eventually told. Sixteen years and 19 grand slam titles separate this pair but remarkably it was Federer's legs that were fresher in the decider, and after two hours and 11 minutes he had won 7-6 (8/6), 5-7, 6-1.
Germany's Alexander Zverev celebrates after winning a point against Switzerland’s Roger Federer during their ATP World Tour Finals match in London yesterday. Federer won 7-6 (8-6), 5-7, 6-1. Pic/AFP
It means Federer is certain to move into this tournament's semi-finals, even before his final group match against Marin Cilic, while Zverev faces American Jack Sock for the second qualifying spot. Zverev is yet to make an impact at a grand slam but if the world number three overcomes Sock, a Federer reunion in Sunday's final would seem a distinct possibility.
Roger Federer
"What I like about Zverev is he's got the complete package," Federer said. "He's already three in the world. I think he's going to leave the World Tour Finals, regardless if he qualifies for the semis or not, with a lot of information. "I think the last six months of the season gave him everything he needs to work forward to. Then, of course, he's only going to get stronger from here. That should be very encouraging for him and his team." Federer remains the favourite to claim a record-stretching seventh title here, even more so after Rafael Nadal became the latest top player to pull out on Monday.
