Wimbledon 2015: Writers Awards – Best Male Player

7. <p>2015 was the year for dominant displays and building momentum. Roger Federer was imperious throughout, with form harking back to his dominance on the grass courts of Wimbledon in his prime. His semi final must go down as one his most flawless performances of all time.</p> <p>Richard Gasquet produced a stunning two weeks, sidelining the mental fragility he has suffered from throughout his career. The Frenchman has natural talent by the bucket load and fought his way through a perilous section of the draw to earn a deserved, if somewhat unlikely semi final place.</p> <p>I would argue that Vasek Pospisil also warrants a mention, despite coming unstuck at the quarter final stage. The Canadian produced a string of upsets and battling performances to reigster his best major run. Having spent an inordinate amount of time on court, he was still no pushover against Murray and ought to kick on from such a confidence boosting fortnight.</p> <p>It is hard to dispute that <strong>Novak Djokovic</strong> was the best male at Wimbledon this year. Still not receiving the praise that his achievements warrant, a ninth Grand Slam elevates him into the upper echelons of tennis history. Putting aside the bitter disappointment of the French Open, Djokovic dismantled and inspired Federer.</p> <p>Resilient and belligerently brilliant, the Serbian was consigned to the role of villain in spoiling a potential 18th Grand Slam title for Federer. He may have seemed unusually irritable in the earlier rounds, but when push comes to shove the best player over the two weeks tends to be the one lifting the iconic trophy.</p>. Editor. Lob and Smash. GEOFF NICHOLS