The Swiss, 20-time Grand Slam champion saw off the Canadian in straight sets, winning 6-4 7-6 (7-3), to claim the Mercedes Cup in Stuttgart.
Rusty Start
Playing his first competitive tournament in over 2 months, Federer began the week knowing he could return to the top of the ATP rankings if he reached the final. He was paired against Mischa Zverev in the second round. Zverev gave it his all and looked to be heading towards a shock victory when he quickly wrapped up the first set. Federer, showing some rustiness, regained his composure and began striking the ball better. He would then go on to win the next two sets and set up a quarter-final clash against Guido Pella.
A Federer Master Class in the Quarters
Fans were greeted to a vintage Roger Federer performance as he saw off Argentina Pella in just 67 minutes. The 6-4 6-4 victory brought him one step closer to the World Number 1 with only a small matter of a semi-final clash against Nick Kygrios in the way.
Back At The Top
In what would prove to be his toughest match of the tournament, Federer was put to the test by a gritty Kygrios. The Australian took a closely contested first set in the tiebreak (7-2). However, Kygrios could not capitalise on his lead and surrendered the next set 6-2. The deciding set was a nail-biter with neither player dropping their serves. The match was finally decided in the tie-break with Federer holding his calm to see off Kygrios.
98 Titles and counting...
Having overtaken his great rival Rafael Nadal in the ATP rankings, Federer was a picture of calm as he walked out to face Milos Raonic in the final. Raonic himself was making an impressive comeback following an injury layoff. Both players serve was on point, but a minor lapse on Raonic's part in the third game of the first set handed Federer a crucial break of serve. The Swiss went on to win the first set 6-4. Both players did not lose their serve in the second set, and eventually, Federer found a way through Raonic's serve in the tiebreaker.
Looking Ahead
The win gives Federer his 98th title and will look to continue his impressive grass court run in Halle. A win at the Gerry Weber Open could see him competing for his 100th title and Wimbledon.
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