Federer Credits Coach Ljubicic

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Federer Credits Coach Ljubicic

Roger Federer credits coach Ivan Ljubicic’s clarity and desire for contributing to his success this season.

First-hand experience facing this generation and tactical acumen are two reasons why Federer added Ljubicic to his coaching team.

Watch: Federer Races Past Raonic Into Semifinals

Former world No. 3 Ljubicic played Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal nine times apiece, winning twice against both Grand Slam champions. Ljubicic previously coached Milos Raonic, whom Federer swept in straight sets today to charge into the Wimbledon semifinals.

“We're good friends. Spending time together is not a drag,” Federer said of Ljubicic. “It's nice. Feel like in the beginning obviously you always got to figure things out a little bit. What is Ivan going to bring to an existing team already? Same thing with Stefan Edberg as well.

“I knew Ivan very well beforehand. I felt like he could be really, you know, inspiring as well in the sense that he really wants me to win. He's a close friend to our family. We're close to his family. He's been a player that has played on the tour with me for the first time. He's actually the only coach that ever did that. I thought that could be quite interesting.”

Former Indian Wells champion Ljubicic possessed one of the most potent one-handed backhands of his generation and, along with Federer’s father and fellow one-handed backhand aficionado Robert Federer, encouraged the 18-time Grand Slam champion to drive his one-hander more often.

Federer said Ljubicic and coach Severin Luthi have been clear in pre-match tactical discussions.

“(Ivan) and Severin, when they talk about the match with me, or beforehand when they go through things, I feel like I get a very clear message of how they would want me to play, what they think I should do or not do, what I can expect from my opponent,” Federer said. “I think it's working very well. I couldn't be happier right now with my team.”

Photo credit: Australian Open

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