Federer focussing on French Open

In form star resting up before Roland Garros

With the French Open fast-approaching, Swiss star Roger Federer told the press that he intends to take a break to focus on the sport’s most physically demanding tournament, a move aimed at giving himself the best chance of winning a second title.

Doesn’t he just deserve it too? The 35-year-old has had a sensational 2017 already, upsetting the odds, and opinions of experts, to win the Australian Open, claiming his fifth title in that sphere, and first since 2010. With Djokivic and Murray both out of the way, tennis fans were treated to a blast from the past – and it would appear a sign of things to come – when Federer downed old rival Rafa Nadal in the final. A five-set thriller. Do these two do it any other way in Grand Slams? We saw the returning king crowned thanks to a 6-4, 3-6, 6-1, 3-6, 6-3 score.

Federer available at a big price in Paris

A fluke, achieved against a weakened field? Don’t believe it for a second! Federer proved he was in fact back in business by stamping that form when winning in Indian Wells and, most recently, the Miami Open. This time Djok and Muzza were out injured, Federer again took advantage, and again pulled rank over Nadal in the final. In what was rather more convincing circumstances than Melbourne, the victory was claimed with a 6-3, 6-4 tally. But it was no less of a battle, with 10 break points shared in the opening set alone. Three titles already in the bag, no wonder he’s keen on a rest.

Judging by his form this year, who could write Fed-Ex off to win the French Open with any real confidence? Well Coral traders fancy a pop at it, and think the surface will be his undoing. Punters looking to keep faith with Federer will find an attractive 10/1 on him in the outright betting.