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Roger Federer has won more Grand Slam than anyone (20), has spent more weeks in first place than anyone else (310) and has the Career Grand Slam, which includes his 2009 Roland Garros title.
But for the third seed, Federer, these feats mean very little of this fortnight at Roland Garros, his first in Paris since 2015. For the Swiss, aged 37, he is the outsider who looks in favorites , such as 11-time champion Rafael Nadal and world No. 1 Novak Djokovic.
"It's good to be an outsider. That's what I feel, anyway. See how it goes. I know that when Wimbledon comes, of course, I will probably be a higher favorite. It's good too. I am happy to be where I am, "Federer said.
The Swiss came back on the packed Philippe Chatrier court without drama Sunday, opening day of the second Grand Slam of the season, qualifying 6-2, 6-4, 6-4 against Italian Lorenzo Sonego. And although the fans' support remains enthusiastic for Federer in Paris, he sees his return differently from past experiences at Roland Garros.
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"For many years, it was not, if I do not win, it's a disappointment and you explain yourself in the newsroom. People do not understand why you lost, "said Federer.
But now, he said, "I feel as if I had lost the first round, the final or whatever the situation, people would be:" OK, it could have happened.
"I like this approach for me too from time to time. It will perhaps relax you on the most important points, or unconsciously, as you wander the grounds, training and going to the newsroom, "he said.
Federer and the athletes of all sports are known to minimize their expectations and set the bar for their future performance. But Federer insisted that he be honest.
"It's not a show I'm going up. It's the truth. I really do not know where I can go in this event and I am very happy with my first round. It was a very good performance, "said Federer.
The Swiss also explained why, with four children and his wife, he always travels the world and participates in events such as Roland Garros: Pure pbadion.
"I like the ATP circuit," he said. I like to play. Travel, for me, do not bother me too much. I have the impression of having a lot of friends in the world, so it is nice to see them. I think it's also useful to go to places and see my old friends, I only see them once a year. [I’m] just very happy with the way things are going on the tour. "
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