Roger Federer reveals true thoughts about overtaking Rafael Nadal at Stuttgart Open
ROGER FEDERER says he is ‘satisfied’ that he now has a chance to take the world No 1 crown off Rafael Nadal.
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Federer beat Guido Pella 6-4, 6-4 in the Stuttgart Open quarter-finals this afternoon meaning he now needs just one win to secure his place at the top of the world rankings.
The Swiss star was in devastating form against Pella as he dropped only 11 points on serve.
Nadal is currently 100 ATP points ahead of Federer in the rankings but if the 37-year-old can make the final then he will leapfrog his rival.
However, Federer will not have it easy in the semi-finals as the winner Nick Kyrgios and Feliciano Lopez awaits.
The chance, of course, is to become number one. That's special
"The chance, of course, is to become number one. That's special, "Federer said.
"I'm totally satisfied.
“It's just important to play well at the right moment."
Elsewhere, Milos Raonic will face Lucas Pouile in the other semi-final.
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If Federer wins the tournament he will add 250 ATP points to his current tally - taking him 150 above Nadal.
Nadal has withdrawn from Queen’s next week meaning Federer will likely head into Wimbledon as the world No 1, as long as he wins his semi-final and defends his Halle Open title next week.
It is unclear when Nadal will return to action and his participation at Wimbledon is in doubt.