Federer Far From Finished

© Getty ImagesRoger Federer believes he can compete at the highest level for many years to come.

Roger Federer recently turned 30, an age when he may be expected to start winding down. But he’s having none of it. The 16-time Grand Slam champion believes he has many more good years left in him and will start by attempting to win a sixth US Open title.

“My preparation has been good and I'm excited for the tournament to start,” said the Swiss. “Clearly it's always a great event to be a part of. I’ve had success here obviously. It's nice to be back.

“This is my 13th time here, 12th time maybe in the main draw. It's definitely an inspiration seeing guys being around for a long time like Ken Rosewall, Jimmy Connors, Andre Agassi, and then there are tons of other players who were there for a long time.

“I feel my game allows me to still play for many more years because I have a relaxing playing style,” continued the Basel native. “I have almost played a thousand matches on tour and that takes its toll, but I'm very professional when it comes to massages, stretching, diet, sleep, all of that stuff. That's why I'm confident I can still play for many more years to come at the highest of levels.”

DEUCE Magazine: The Road Ahead

Novak Djokovic’s remarkable success has not left many titles for the rest of the tour to divvy up, with Federer having won just one trophy so far in 2011 (Doha), his lowest tally since 2001. The right-hander is also keen to extend his record of winning at least one major title every year since 2003, but is well aware of the competition he faces from the World No. 1.

“He’s been impressive to say the least,” said Federer. “He's done amazing to have a run like that, especially after losing here in the finals last year. It's been wonderful to watch, even though I have probably seen just 10 to 15 matches of all those matches he's played. So for me it's hard to say how well he's really played.  I have seen him play some matches and they were all really good, but I'm not courtside for every single match.

“The record speaks for itself. It's been an amazing run, and he's still playing really well. He's definitely one of the favourites here, if not the favourite.”

Federer opens his campaign at Flushing Meadows on Monday evening, when he faces Colombian Santiago Giraldo in the Arthur Ashe evening session.