First up, I'm not trying to say that Andy is the next Federer, but after listening to all the rubbish about Andy being overrated, etc. (not here of course), I decided to check out what Federer did when he was Andy's age (18/19). Having gone to the trouble, I thought I'd share the info with everyone.
So here's a list of RF's ranking during 2000, when Sampras, Agassi and Safin led the rankings, along with Roger's big results that year.
Bare in mind that Roger was born on 8/8/1981, and Andy on 15/5/1987, so on strict age he's a bit behind Roger at the moment, but if Andy can hit top 30 by the end of the year, I'd be happy.
I know it's a terrible things to do, resurrecting one of your own posts.
Feel free to give me abuse, but with Andy reaching top 16, I looked back for this post and when I saw it again it I realised just how incredible Andy has been this year.
I know Andy has points to lose at Bankok, but I'm guessing he doesn't have much more to do to guarantee top 30 this year. My revised estimate (with Master Series events still to play), is that he can make top 12 by the end of the year, provided he stays clear of injuries.
14/08 - 40 21/08 - 40 28/08 - 40 US Open (R32 - 75pts.) 11/09 - 36
So, next rankings we'll be here, and Andy will be roughly (becuase he could still go higher or lower) 20places higher than Federer at the same age. Excellent.
Well ressurrected Keith, I'd forgotten all about this post and it's really interesting (especially now!)
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