After lifting the first Wimbledon crown in 2003, Roger Federer could become world number one in the coming weeks. The Swiss came within a victory of the ATP throne in Montreal, denied by Andy Roddick in the semi-final and missing more chances after first losses in Cincinnati and the US Open.
Federer finished the season in second place after winning the first Masters Cup title, preparing to attack the ATP throne in 2004. Traveling to Australia without Peter Lundgren in his coaching box, Federer proved to be a player to beat in the first few.
three rounds, using a favorable draw to reach the knockout stages. Facing more dangerous opponents, Federer defeated local star Lleyton Hewitt and David Nalbandian to find himself in his second Major semi-final and first in Melbourne. Roger had a negative record against both rivals at the time, losing one set but controlling the pace in the others for his best result at Melbourne Park.
One triumph from reaching the final and becoming world number one, Roger defeated Juan Carlos Ferrero 6-4, 6-1, 6-4 in an hour and a half, advancing to the second Major final and conquering the ATP throne at age 22.Federer defended all four break opportunities and earned his fourth win over Juan Carlos, who couldn’t match Roger’s numbers after suffering four breaks. Servers advanced through the first six service games before Federer repelled four break points in his only loose service game.
