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Wimbledon: Bottom half, Federer quarter analysis

By Geoff Nichols

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Wimbledon: Bottom half, Federer quarter analysis[

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Roger Federer’s path for an eighth Wimbledon title has been decided. The world number two, without a major title for three years, ought to be reasonably pleased with how it has unfolded. Whilst he is no longer immune to early round upsets, on current form a semi final run looks very possible.

The other big seed in the final quarter of the draw is Thomas Berdych, a former finalist at Wimbledon. The Czech player was threatening to catch fire in the early stages of 2015 but has since tailed off and struggles to string together big wins in the Grand Slams.

Selected First Round Matches

Berdych 6 (CZE) v Chardy (FRA)

Berdych has done a fantastic job of avoiding upsets this year, only really losing to those ranked above him. Chardy is one of the harder opponents he could have faced in the first round, although the Frenchman will have to play the match of his life to win this one.

Gulbis (LAT) v Rosol (CZE)

It is easy to predict fireworks in any match, but this encounter almost guarantees some kind of storyline. Rosol tries to get under the skin of opponents and Gublis will not bite his tongue if he is antagonised. The Latvian will be hoping to stop his freefall down the rankings, but Rosol will be up for the fight.

Possible Second Round Matches

Berdych 6 (CZE) v Mahut (FRA)

Mahut is a top 20 player on grass and despite being remembered for the longest match on history, his ability on the surface could well cause a few problems for Berdych. He will need to keep the ball low and out of the Czech man’s striking zone to stand a chance.

Querrey (US) v Federer 2 (SUI)

Querrey seems to be peaking at just the right moment. Could this finally be the time for the American to hit the big time? He should have a chance to do so against Federer, although hopefully his exploits this week have left him with enough in the tank. Federer will need to return will and should he do so, he will avoid any major drama.

Projected Third Round Matches

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Berdych 6 (CZE) v Garcia-Lopez 29 (SPA)

These two men have been in solid form all year, but you have to question whether Garcia-Lopez has the weapons to challenge a big player. Sure he will be there if they are not at their best, but Berdych has the experience to get the job done in straights.

Monfils 18 (FRA) v Simon 12 (FRA)

Two Frenchman who have been painfully inconsistent at Wimbledon down the years are on a collision course. Simon may have one of the nicest draws possible in the opening two rounds and all in all he is too steady and consistent for Monfils. They may well be playing for a Davis Cup spot, however, which should focus Monfils.

Lopez 15 (SPA) v Bautista Agut 20 (SPA)

I am not the biggest fan of Lopez and think that he is not at the level you would expect from a 15th seed. Needless to say Bautista Agut is not the most talented seed either, but both men have seen significant success on the grass. I really wonder if either or indeed both Spaniards will make it to the third round.

Sock 31 (US) v Federer 2 (SUI)

Sock squeezed into the seeding positions and is rewarded with a third round meeting with Federer, which is just tough luck. If he can be aggressive and get his forehand into play, he could rush Federer, but you can see Federer using all his experience to get through this one.

Quarter Winner: Federer over Berdych

Next: No sign of Top Spin 5, where are tennis video games?

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