Andy Murray Says Roger Federer Can Still Win A Grand Slam

Andy Murray said that Roger Federer can still add another grand slam title in his long list of tennis accolades, despite the Swiss’ two-year grand slam title drought. Murray has spoken following Federer’s shocking early exit at the 2015 Australian Open. Federer was defeated by Italy’s Andreas Seppi 6-4 7-6 (5) 4-6 7-6 (5) in the third round of the said tournament.

Federer’s defeat meant that he has not won a grand slam trophy since 2012 Wimbledon, raising doubts if he can win another grand slam title. Murray, who was defeated by Federer 6-3, 6-4 6-7 (6) 6-3 in the quarterfinals of last year’s Australian Open, has no hesitations that the 17-time grand slam champion can add another grand slam trophy in his career.

“If I had to bet, I would probably bet that he (Federer) would win another one (grand slam),” Murray said of Federer’s chances. “He’s still playing great tennis, but Roger knows more than anyone how difficult these competitions are to win.”

According to Murray, Federer made it looked very easy to win grand slam titles when the Swiss was still playing at his peak but the Scot knows how hard the road is to emerge victorious in a major tennis event, having to play against and beat the top 100 players on tour.

Murray stalks Federer 12-11 in their head-to-head record. The last time that the Scot had scored a victory over Federer 6-4 6-7 (5) 6-3 6-7 (2) 6-2 was during the semifinals of the 2012 Australian Open.

Sixth-seeded Murray is on course to face Tomas Berdych on Jan. 28 after beating home-favourite Nick Kyrgios 6-3 7-6 (5) 6-3 in straight sets in the quarterfinals. He remains optimistic that he will be able to keep his momentum going against Berdych, who has been playing incredibly well in the tournament after eliminating World No. 3 Rafael Nadal for the first time in nine years in the last eight.

“It's nice to be in the latter stages of a slam again, I'm happy with that,” Murray said during a press conference. “Obviously we want to do as best as possible, but all you can do is prepare as best you can, which I certainly did over the last few weeks and months, and have given myself an opportunity.” Murray is a three-time finalist at Melbourne Park.

To reach the author of this article, email r.corpuz@IBTimes.com.au.