Federer ‘struggled to breathe’ in shock 4th-round defeat at US Open

Roger Federer has blamed the atmospheric condition at Flushing Meadows, New York, after he faced a shock defeat to John Millman at the ongoing US Open.

Australia’s Millman, ranked 55 in the world, saw off Federer 3-6 7-5 7-6 (9-7) 7-6 (7-3) in three hours 35 minutes in the fourth round match.

The 37-year-old Swiss lost for the first time in 41 matches at the US Open against a player ranked outside the top 50 in the ATP.

“It was very hot and one of those nights where I felt I couldn’t get air. There was no circulation at all,” he said.

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“I just struggled in the conditions and it was one of the first times it has happened to me.

“You just keep sweating and lose energy. At some point I was just happy the match was over,” added Federer who was bidding to clinch a sixth US Open title and a record-extending 21st Grand Slam.

Meanwhile, 29-year-old Millman is the only unseeded player left in the last eight of the men’s singles category.

“I’m probably in a little bit of disbelief,” said Millman.

“I have so much respect for Roger and everything he’s done for the game. He’s been a hero of mine.”

He will take on Novak Djokovic in the quarterfinals.

 

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