Even though Federer lost in the quarterfinals of Paris today, it didn't take too long for the initial disappointment to dissipate. Sure, the thought of him winning a third trophy in a row sounded appealing, and giving himself a great chance to end the year at #1. But think about it - a lot of fans weren't necessarily even expecting him to play Paris at all after winning back-to-back trophies in Shanghai and Basel. He had already expressed that the World Tour Finals in London and Davis Cup were his priorities. If he would have made it all the way to the final he would have put two more days worth of matches into his already tired body. I say it's time for a rest and to get ready for the last two big events of the year.
He didn't play a bad match at all in his loss to Raonic. I will say, though, that Raonic played quite amazing. He knew what was on the line for him - a chance to participate in the esteemed World Tour Finals - and he played like someone with a lot to lose. Yes, I was getting frustrated with the way Federer wasn't having much of a chance on Raonic's service games because of that incredible serve, especially after having faced this already against Karlovic just the week before in Basel. But Milos stepped up in more ways than just his serve, painting the lines many times on his forehand, and he deserved the win. And I don't feel that Roger really minded losing that much anyway - his mind is already moving ahead to getting some rest and hopefully playing amazing in London.
Also, I never really felt that Roger adjusted fully to this ultra slow court in Paris. Even though he got a couple wins, it seemed like it was a little more of a struggle than normal maybe. I'm hoping the court in London will be a bit quicker for the style that suits his game so well. He has already expressed he is hoping to win in London. It will be a hard task, as always, but with the season he has had, why not?
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