Roger Federer won his 101st career singles title on Sunday by beating defending champion John Isner in the Miami Open final, 6-1, 6-4.
Federer after sealing the victory said, “It’s unbelievable. I played here in 1999 for the first time and here I am in 2019. It means a lot to me.”
The temporary stands inside the Miami Dolphins’ NFL stadium were almost full for the final, but Federer quickly diffused any drama, breaking in the opening game and then twice more in a first set that lasted only 24 minutes. Federer neutralised Isner’s big serve and won 32 of 35 points on his own serve.
The 6ft 10in Isner had to scramble desperately to stay in rallies and hurt his left foot late in the second set. He was barely fit enough to finish the match but managed to limp through the final few points.
Federer paid tribute to his opponent’s determination after the match, “John is a great player and a great person and I’m so sorry for your foot.”
Isner, meanwhile, joked he wanted to see Federer play into old age, “Roger, we’re so lucky to have you and we want you to keep playing and literally never retire.”
Federer won his 100th title at the Dubai champion on the 2nd of March, and was runner up at Indian Wells two weeks ago.