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Grand Slams aren’t the only titles that Roger Federer is winning

By Harry Floyd

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 29: Roger Federer of Switzerland poses with the Norman Brookes Challenge Cup after winning the 2018 Australian Open Men's Singles Final, at Government House on January 29, 2018 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 29: Roger Federer of Switzerland poses with the Norman Brookes Challenge Cup after winning the 2018 Australian Open Men's Singles Final, at Government House on January 29, 2018 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images) /
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Grand Slams are just one part of the growing legacy that is Roger Federer. The Swiss great is increasing his lead across the board.

Grand Slams are one part of the equation. Roger Federer, however, is increasing his lead across the board when it comes to titles that matter.

As his living legend continues to grow, Federer is setting himself further apart from other top players on the ATP World Tour. His recent 20th Grand Slam title gives him a total of 53 combined major tournament, end of year finals, and Masters 1000 titles. That is six ahead of Novak Djokovic and seven ahead of Rafael Nadal.

While Nadal temporarily remains ahead of Federer for the world No. 1 ranking, the Swiss great is now right on his heels. Within 200 points of Nadal, there is no doubt that Federer ought to be favored to pass him in the coming months.

Looking at the career numbers, Federer is making it harder and harder for players such as Djokovic and Nadal to catch him. Although Nadal and Djokovic have slightly edged him when it comes to Masters 1000 titles, Federer remains ahead of both players in Grand Slam and end of year finals titles. In fact, Nadal is yet to win a single Nitto ATP Finals title. Federer has six to his name and Djokovic has five.

Next: Top 10: Men's Singles Tennis

Federer should continue to extend his lead over other top players in the sport throughout the year. If he remains healthy, the Swiss superstar must be considered the top contender in any match he plays. The only potential exception to that would maybe be on clay courts where Nadal is also in a tournament. Federer has just one title at the French Open whereas Nadal has ten. The king of clay will look to bounce back midyear when it comes time to prepare for Roland Garros.

As we eye the upcoming Grand Slams, the status of several top players will largely determine the favorites moving forward. The ATP World Tour has seen injuries fall upon plenty of players in the past year, Djokovic and Nadal included. Federer is probably the healthiest of the bunch despite being 36-years-old. Look for the Swiss great to continue defying the odds in 2018. Check back for updates on all of the action surrounding the very best in men’s singles tennis.

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