Roger Federer can still defeat Novak Djokovic: Severin Luthi

Severin Luthi, Roger Federer’s long-time coach, believes the world No. 3 could still beat an in-form Novak Djokovic.

In an interview with Tages Anzeiger, Luthi revealed about Federer’s fitness for the European clay-court season after the Swiss Maestro underwent surgery to repair a meniscal tear on his left knee. Prior to getting injured, Federer’s last match was against Djokovic, whom Luthi believes could still be beaten by the 34-year-old Swiss.

Luthi admitted he is amazed about Djokovic’s accomplishments in the past two seasons and how the Serb has so much confidence in his game. But despite Djokovic’s impressive run, the Swiss tennis coach is convinced Federer could beat Nole, with the 17-time Grand Slam winner constantly improving his game.

“It's amazing what he is currently doing,” Luthi said as translated by Tennis World USA. “He certainly has the necessary looseness and a lot of confidence by his many wins. I would worry if I do not know how to beat him. But that is not the case. Roger has beaten him three times last year. And in the matches, where he lost, he had his chances.”

Federer has not won against Djokovic in their past two meetings, including the former’s semifinal loss at the Australian Open. It would be epic to see another face-off between the two rivals this season, but fans may have to wait for a bit before witnessing Federer and Djokovic taking on each other, with the latter suffering a stunning loss against Czech Jiri Vesely in the second round of the Monte Carlo Masters.

Meanwhile, Federer post-knee surgery debut had gone well after defeating Guillermo Garcia-Lopez 6-3 6-4 in Round of 32 of the Monte Carlo Masters. Contrary to the rustiness admitted by Federer prior to the start of the tournament, the Basel native was on point against the Spaniard as if he was not sidelined for more than two months.

"The knee felt really good, like in practice. Felt like I didn't have to worry about it. I could just go freely," Federer said, reports the ATP’s official website.

Federer next faces Spain’s Roberto Bautista Agut, who defeated Jeremy Chardy 63- 5-7 7-5.