Fed defeated Tsonga in five sets in the Australian Open Quarterfinals. He did not play his best nor did he rise easily above the pressure of the moment. 4 for 19 on break points is not a champion’s ratio. He prevailed in this match with movement and the benefit of two successful tie-breakers- the lottery of tennis. I feel that the speed of this tournament’s surface (the fastest of the four majors) will benefit the best serve; back -up plan is to have the best return of serve, where Murray and Roger excel. We’ll see.

Aside from marveling at his humor in English during the post-match, on-court interview (English is his third language, which may be true for most American football players as well), I noted with relish his remark that he enjoys watching tennis on television. Truly?! Roger Federer watches ESPN or similar with a clicker in one hand?! What does he watch during the commercials? Housewives of Oberhausen? Ludwig Springer Show?

He was serious and giddy even. Partially still enjoying his match victory and mainly because Roger Federer likes tennis; playing and watching and analyzing playing and watching. He’s not trying to win; he’s tries to play tennis as he is capable, which is blessedly spectacular. How else could he still be motivated at 31 with infant daughters and so many achievements that further accomplishment can barely be measured. Sort of like another home run by Babe Ruth or another amazing idea by Apple. “Been a bunch, right?!”

That’s the secret of persistent achievement; an infinite looping of the pleasure of well selected effort. This is where he separates himself from Tiger Woods, most tennis professionals and most professionals (moi aussi). The anxiety of failure rushes us to conclusion which probably frustrates the potential of our capabilities.

What I’m really doing is talking myself into setting the alarm for 3:30 to watch his semi-final match with Andy Murray. Andy is on a roll; played well at the US Open (he won the trophy); and knows that his waxing complements Roger’s waning. Still, I favor the movement of Federer presuming their serves are about equal.

I’ll like watching this match.