Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal have survived many crises in their parallel careers, and both are relieved to remain on schedule for a semi-final showdown at the 2017 US Open after dealing with contrasting challenges in the first round. However, the Swiss, who had to go five sets, seems considerably more content than the Spaniard, who was back in the locker room after only minor inconveniences in his match.
The look on Federer’s face when the American teenager Frances Tiafoe stumbled inches from the line as he came within a few tantalising shots of what would have been the biggest upset of the year on Tuesday was reminiscent of the moment of incredulous joy when he came from 1-3 down in the fifth set of the Australian Open final this year to win his 18th major. And that after six months off the Tour recovering from knee surgery.
Related: US Open: Roger Federer forced to distance by upstart Frances Tiafoe
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