Federer relishes competition

Federer: Relishing competition

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Wimbledon champion Roger Federer is relishing increased competition for his crown as he bids for a record sixth straight title.

The Swiss has previously been unassailable at SW19 but his rivals - notably Rafael Nadal - look set to give him a harder time.

Brilliant clay-court player Nadal has raised his game on the grass, getting to the last two Wimbledon finals against Federer and pushing him all the way in a five-set thriller 12 months ago.

And he lifted his first title on the surface in the Artois Championships earlier this month in preparation.

But Federer himself is in top form on grass, equalling Pete Sampras' record of 10 grass-court titles with his fifth victory in Halle last weekend - his previous four were followed by Wimbledon triumphs three weeks later.

"That's exactly what I hope for this time," said Federer, who recorded his 59th consecutive win on grass at Halle.

"That's why I'm so satisfied. That's why I will go to Wimbledon with a lot of hope."

But he is not complacent and knows it will be tough against Australian Open winner Novak Djokovic and French Open champion Nadal, especially after his victory at Queen's.

Federer added: "It's nice to see Rafa do the same thing.

"I think it's exciting for tennis that we have two, three players at the moment who are regularly in the finals. It looks like they are going to be in great shape for Wimbledon."

Nadal improving

Nadal is looking forward to Wimbledon, saying he has improved his game on the surface,

He said: "For grass I've improved some things.

"The serve is important but I play more slices, changing the way of the point with slice sometimes.

"That's important because you can play with different rhythms, which makes it more difficult for the opponent. For example, against Roger he gives you one slice and then a forehand with topspin. It's big changes during the point and is very difficult, especially on grass.

"I'm feeling good with my volleys too. I worked hard during all the years to improve these things and right now I feel I've improved a little bit.

"But if I want to continue to be in this position, I have to be continuing to improve always."

Djokovic hopeful

Djokovic also hopes to do well at the tournament to make up for last year when he had to retire during the third set of his semi-final against Nadal with blisters.

He added: "Last year I was one of the players really hurt bad by the weather. I had to play one match over five days.

"Then I just could not hold on, because I had marathon matches in the fourth round and quarter-finals, lasting almost five hours. I was just hurt and too exhausted to play in the semis.

"I will just try to do as I have done for the past two years, try to be myself and be aggressive. If I can show my game and play the best that I can, then I am confident I can do well.

"Wimbledon is my favourite Grand Slam, I have always said that. I have always wanted to win Wimbledon in my career.

"But I am only 21 and am not in a big rush. I do not need to win it this year, even though I am one of the favourites. I still have a lot of time to come."