Federer, who is hoping to surpass Sampras' record of 14 titles, doesn't have any big-match nerves for tomorrow's final courtesy last month's French Open win
Federer, who is hoping to surpass Sampras' record of 14 titles, doesn't have any big-match nerves for tomorrow's final courtesy last month's French Open win
ADVERTISEMENT
Roger Federer will call on all his vast experience of Wimbledon finals to stay composed as he attempts to break Pete Sampras' record of Grand Slam victories.
The Swiss ace produced another masterclass to ease past Tommy Haas in straight sets in the first men's semi-final on Centre Court yesterday and reach a record magnificent seventh successive final.
Federer, who broke Bjorn Borg's record of five consecutive Wimbledon victories two years ago, drew level with Sampras with his 14th Slam at Roland Garros last month and is not expecting any big-match nerves tomorrow.
Fifth was big
"I don't think so because it helped me a lot trying to achieve the fifth straight Wimbledon, equalling Borg's record," he said.
"For some reason that meant the world to me. I was in a bubble for two weeks just trying to achieve it.
"So this time around I think I'm much more relaxed. Maybe it's also because of Paris but I really think that experience, trying to go for my fifth Wimbledon, was a really big one."
Federer is still waiting to see if Sampras will come to Wimbledon for the final, but Borg was in the Royal Box to witness the World No 2 edge to within one win of his own Wimbledon total of 51.
It was all too easy as Federer maintained his 100 per cent record in Wimbledon semi-finals with a 7-6 (7/3), 7-5, 6-3 victory.
A fifth straight-sets win of the Championships was just about his most comfortable as he denied Haas a single break point.
"You normally play better if your opponent plays well too and I thought Tommy was on a good run," said Federer. "I couldn't get close to breaking him for almost two sets.
"I was a bit worried but I'm really happy with the way I played. I came up with some good stuff when I had to."
Haas, too, was all smiles after reaching his first Wimbledon semi-final and insists he will be back for another attempt next year, at the age of 32.
"Overall I was pretty happy with the way I played," he said. "I just came up short."
Haas has a warning for Federer's opponent tomorrow but insists he is not unbeatable.
No weaknesses
"There aren't really any weaknesses (in his game)," he said. "I think he moves in such smooth ways and has such good defensive play.
"I think sometimes maybe if he feels a little bit of pressure or gets a little bit tight, he can make some unforced errors, especially against those players that move really well and keep the ball in play, such as maybe Andy Murray or (Rafael) Nadal."
"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels 
Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
