CAMELOT FANTASIES

Roger Federer Sets Stage for Run at No. 1 After Dubai Title

By Joe Kennard , Featured Columnist Mar 3, 2015

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2381244-roger-federer-sets-stage-for-run-at-no-1-after-dubai-title?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=tennis

But after capturing his record seventh Dubai crown, a bigger prize could be in his sights.
While Federer may not admit it publicly, the possibility of returning to No. 1 in the world has to be extremely tantalizing. Not only would he prove something to himself by vaulting past his younger rivals and hush the calls for his retirement, but the Swiss would add another milestone to his resume.
Andre Agassi currently holds the record as the oldest male tennis player to be ranked No. 1. On May 11, 2003, Agassi reached that plateau at 33 years and 11 days old.

For the man who already has everything, surpassing that mark would only bolster Federer's case as the Greatest of All Time. He's competing in an era with more depth of talent than arguably any other in tennis history. With Djokovic and Rafael Nadal—two legends in their own right—as well as Andy Murray, the fight for No. 1 has been extremely competitive the last decade.

It's easy to forget that Federer is significantly older than his rivals. He'll celebrate his 34th birthday on August 8. Nadal will turn 29 this June while Djokovic and Murray will both be 28 during May. In a sport where movement and foot speed are so vital, it's a testament to Federer's sheer talent that he's been able to stay relevant for this long.