Another week went by, and in the end, it was Roger Federer who clinched yet another ATP 500 title- the 20th of this kind and the 97th overall. It's Federer's second title in 2018 and the one that propelled him at the ATP summit for the first time in more than five years.
Becoming the world No. 1 so late in his career makes Federer break one more record. In fact, the Swiss player breaking records seems like a daily activity in recent months. The 36-year-old tennis titan made a last minute decision accepting the organizers' invitation to Rotterdam.
With Rafael Nadal still off the zone due to illness, it became clear that Federer has a window of opportunity that is worthy of a challenge. Several days later, he went on reaching the semis of the event to secure the first spot in the ATP ranking.
Roger Federer's schedule might change, some clay may be added to the mix
Roger Federer has yet to lose a match in 2018. With the undefeated aura still looming above his head, the Swiss wizard may decide to give a go in the Middle East at Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, an event Federer won seven times in the past. With a thin main draw to display, this ATP 500 event could use Federer's name to get some traction.
Not being present on the official entry list, Federer might benefit from a wild-card if he decides to give it a try.
Last year, he suffered a shocking defeat in his opening match.
Moreover, there are rumors that Federer's schedule for 2018 may include some clay court action as well. And that might be the biggest novelty of his year.
Up until then, he will focus on the Sunshine Double as he will have to defend two perfect bids at Indian Wells and Miami.
Roger Federer should avoid clay courts
The surface Federer feels less comfortable, the European red dirt makes a Huge part of the ATP calendar. Consisting of three Masters 1000 events and a Grand Slam showdown, the clay court swing was entirely off the table last year when Federer skipped it entirely.
It's easy to argue in favor of skipping the clay courts swing, especially after taking a look at the numbers.
Back in 2009, Roger Federer won his sole French Open title to complete the Career Slam. Almost nine years later, he can't brag about encountering further success on this surface. A title in Madrid (2012) and another one at the newly created Istanbul Open (2015) were the only occasions when Federer capped the week spent in the dirt with a triumph.
It's obvious that the temptation and the feeling that there can be more to be taken is an urge he will have to fight against. On the other hand, having Federer on a potential clay court bid would be something worth watching too.
