3/14/10 1:49 AM | Johan Lindahl
Roger Federer says he's psyched for his first on-court test in six weeks after kicking a lung infection in time to take his place as top seed at the Indian Wells Masters.
The world No. 1 got in a light tuneup at the Hit for Haiti 2 charity event prior to his weekend start, teaming up with Pete Sampras. But the hit-and-giggle was nothing like the real thing for the Swiss, who last played in the Australian Open final in January.
Federer boasts three consecutive titles in the Californian desert - 2004-2006.
He admits that the biggest challenge was acclimating to a 12-hour time change dating back less than a fortnight to his time in Dubai, which was followed by a few days in Switzerland before crossing the Atlantic.
"Jet lag is tough here, coming from Europe to the West Coast," he said. "It's a big one."
"It took me at least a week to get accustomed to everything. That's why I arrived really early (10 days before his opening-match). A few days ago I definitely felt like I was back to my normal self."
"I'm ready to go, and hopefully start with a good match on Sunday. It would be nice winning the tournament again because I haven't done so in the last couple years."
Federer said that the cement courts suit his game nicely as he bids for a second title this season. "I hope I can continue some sort of good form from the way I was playing in Australia.
"There are no guarantees. I've had a long break now, but in practise I've been feeling okay. I definitely need matches to really be able to judge my game."
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c'moon roger! will be great to see the master at work. keep the game tight.(I just hate early rounds of any tournament!). I couldnt believe cilic went out yesterday!
go federer!
maxi , 3/14/10 10:52 AM