It seemed unthinkable just a few days ago, but Roger Federer’s chances of winning an age-defying 18th Grand Slam title are looking better all the time after an astonishing turn of events at the Australian Open.
As top-ranked Andy Murray followed defending champion Novak Djokovic to the exit, 35-year-old Federer gritted his teeth to reach the quarter-finals — and was promptly installed as the surprise bookies’ favourite.
There was no doubt what it meant to Federer, who leapt around the court in celebration as he completed a hard-fought, 6-7 (4/7), 6-4, 6-1, 4-6, 6-3 win over Japan’s Kei Nishikori late on Sunday.
“This is a huge moment for me in my career,” said the grinning Swiss, who could write a new chapter following his return from six months out with a knee injury.
Federer hasn’t won a Grand Slam title in five years, and he could also become the oldest player since 37-year-old Ken Rosewall in 1972 to win one of the sport’s major trophies.
Playing with his old panache, he remains a huge favourite of the Australian crowds who have seen him victorious on four occasions at Melbourne Park.
However, it is still early to talk of a record-extending 18th major title for Federer, with much tennis to be played over the next week starting with his quarter-final against Mischa Zverev today.
Victory would put him into a semi-final against his fellow Swiss, the redoubtable Stan Wawrinka, or France’s Jo-Wilfried Tsonga.
On the other side of the draw lurk third seed Milos Raonic and Grigor ‘Baby Fed’ Dimitrov — and Federer’s old nemesis, Rafael Nadal.
 Australian legend Rod ‘Rocket’ Laver, whose name adorns the Melbourne centre court, was one observer hoping for a ninth Grand Slam final between the long-time rivals.
“Yeah, it would be nice to see (Federer and Nadal) in the final,” he said.
“They’ve been battling each other for probably the last 11 years and now they’re here with a good chance to go through.”
After failing to catch fire against Jurgen Melzer and Noah Rubin, Federer has evoked memories of his glory days in his last two matches, especially his 90-minute beating of Tomas Berdych.
But his impressive show against Nishikori has raised hopes among his fans that another Grand Slam crown is not out of his reach.
Usually a cool customer not given to extravagant celebrations on the court, Federer allowed himself a mighty victory scream after his win over Nishikori, surprising many.
“I’m playing better and better. I don’t get surprised any more from the power or the pace. I’m in the tournament and ready for the next round,” he warned.
It’s a warning that doesn’t augur well for his remaining rivals in the tournament.
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