Roger Federer celebrated his return to the top of the world ranking by winning the ABN AMRO World Tournament, Rotterdam Open on Sunday his 97th career title and declared it “one of the best weeks of my life.” Federer overpowered Grigor Dimitrov 6-2, 6-2 in less than an hour to win his 97th career title.
In the Open era, only American Jimmy Connors has won more titles — 109. "What a week it's been. Absolutely amazing,'' Federer said. "The goal was to make the semis and I won the tournament so of course I'm incredibly excited and so, so happy.''
The 36-year-old Swiss extended his domination over the player once dubbed "Baby Fed'' for the similarities in their playing style, registering his seventh victory in as many meetings.
Federer's third title at the Rotterdam tournament comes a day before he officially returns to the top of the rankings, more than five years after he was last world No. 1.
He will become the oldest person to hold the No. 1 position when the rankings are updated on Monday. It's been more than five years since Federer was last No. 1, and 14 years since he first reached the top spot.
Federer, who has 20 Grand Slams to his name, said his next target is 100 career titles. He moved a step closer Sunday.
As for chasing Connors’ record, Federer said his first objective was to get to 100. “97 is not 100 yet, you’ve got to stay healthy if you want to get close to finals. Things can evaporate quickly,” said Federer. It was his third title in Rotterdam following triumphs in 2005 and 2012.
Federer will decide within a few days whether or not to travel to Dubai for the ATP event starting on Feb. 26.
