10 Memorable Roger Federer Points That Defined Tennis Greatness

Roger Federer didn’t just win matches—he redefined what was possible in tennis. With a career spanning over two decades, he combined power, precision, and artistry in ways few athletes ever have. His legacy isn’t only measured by Grand Slam titles or weeks at world No. 1, but by moments—those transcendent points where time seemed to pause, and the world watched in awe. These are not just rallies; they are masterclasses in timing, instinct, and grace under pressure.

From Wimbledon grass to US Open hard courts, Federer delivered performances that transcended sport. Below are 10 points that stand out not just for their difficulty, but for how they encapsulated the essence of his genius.

1. The Between-the-Legs Winner vs. Novak Djokovic (Wimbledon 2019)

In the semifinals of Wimbledon 2019, with match point against him in the fifth set, Federer faced a looping lob from Djokovic. Instead of retreating, he turned mid-rally, sprinted forward, and as the ball floated behind him, executed a no-look tweener—between the legs—that landed perfectly inside the baseline. The crowd erupted. Though he would go on to lose the match in a historic final set, this point became an instant classic.

It wasn’t just the audacity of the shot, but its placement and timing. Under crushing pressure, Federer chose creativity over caution—a hallmark of his style.

Tip: Confidence in high-pressure moments often comes from thousands of hours of practice—Federer’s tweener looked spontaneous, but it was rooted in controlled repetition.

2. The 2008 Wimbledon Final – Rally at 15–30, Second Set

The 2008 Wimbledon final against Rafael Nadal is widely regarded as the greatest match in tennis history. Amid torrential rain delays and fading light, one extended rally in the second set exemplified Federer’s resilience. At 15–30, he engaged in a 25-shot exchange, chasing down drop shots, slicing backhands, and absorbing Nadal’s heavy topspin. The point ended with a delicate drop volley winner after a full-stretch lunge.

This moment revealed Federer’s defensive prowess—an underrated aspect of his game. He could transition from retreat to attack in a single stroke.

3. The \"SABR\" Against Andy Roddick (US Open 2011)

Federer wasn’t known for frequent net rushing off serve, but in 2011, he debuted the “Sneak Attack by Roger” (SABR)—a tactic where he charged the net immediately after receiving a second serve. Against Roddick, he approached on a second serve return, flicked a sharp angled volley, and left Roddick stranded. The move stunned fans and commentators alike.

While short-lived in his regular arsenal, the SABR showed Federer’s willingness to innovate even at the peak of his career.

4. The Baseline Exchange vs. Juan Martín del Potro (Wimbledon 2012)

In a fourth-round clash, Federer and del Potro traded thunderous groundstrokes from the baseline. One rally spanned 19 shots, with both players hitting winners from impossible angles. Federer ultimately finished with a cross-court forehand that clipped the line. The speed, depth, and precision were breathtaking.

What made this point special was the contrast: del Potro’s raw power versus Federer’s fluid control. In that exchange, Federer proved he could win a war of attrition without sacrificing elegance.

Expert Insight: The View from the Broadcast Booth

“He makes the difficult look routine. That’s the mark of true greatness.” — John McEnroe, Tennis Analyst

5. The 2009 French Open Semifinal – Passing Shot vs. Robin Söderling

After years of near-misses at Roland Garros, Federer finally broke through in 2009. In the semifinal against Söderling, who had stunned Nadal in the previous round, Federer was under pressure on clay—a surface that demands patience. During a crucial game, Söderling unleashed a blistering forehand down the line, expecting a winner. Federer, stretched wide, flicked a one-handed backhand passing shot that curled around the net post and died inches inside the sideline.

The shot was a perfect blend of touch and timing—one that secured not just the point, but momentum toward his first and only French Open title.

6. The Moon Volley vs. Ernests Gulbis (French Open 2013)

During a third-round match, Federer found himself pulled far behind the baseline. Gulbis hit a deep approach shot, expecting Federer to be on defense. Instead, Federer lofted a moon volley—an extremely high, soft drop shot over the opponent—that barely cleared the net and landed softly near the service line. Gulbis, caught flat-footed, could only watch.

This point showcased Federer’s tactical intelligence. He used height and spin to disrupt rhythm, turning defense into offense with surgical precision.

7. The 2017 Australian Open – Forehand Winner on Match Point

After a 6-month injury hiatus, Federer returned to win the 2017 Australian Open, defeating Nadal in a five-set thriller. On match point, after a tense 31-shot rally, Federer stepped into a looping forehand and drove it deep into the corner. The ball skidded past Nadal, sealing the victory.

The significance wasn’t just the shot, but the context: a 35-year-old player, returning from injury, defeating his greatest rival in a Grand Slam final with pure offensive tennis.

Year	Tournament	Opponent	Significance of the Point
2008	Wimbledon	Rafael Nadal	Showcased endurance and touch in epic conditions
2009	French Open	Robin Söderling	Clinical passing shot en route to first Roland Garros title
2017	Australian Open	Rafael Nadal	Symbolic comeback victory after injury
2019	Wimbledon	Novak Djokovic	Daring tweener on match point
2012	London Olympics	Andy Murray	Backhand winner in final set, showcasing consistency

8. The Olympic Backhand Winner vs. Andy Murray (London 2012)

In the Olympic final on Centre Court, Federer dominated early but lost in straight sets. However, one point stood out: a running one-handed backhand down the line that curved perfectly inside the baseline after a 20-shot rally. The purity of the strike silenced the pro-Murray crowd momentarily.

Even in defeat, Federer reminded the world why his backhand is considered one of the most beautiful strokes in tennis history.

9. The 2005 Wimbledon Quarterfinal – Reflex Volley vs. Mario Ančić

Ančić, known for his powerful serve, blasted a smash directly at Federer’s head. Reacting in a split second, Federer raised his racket and deflected the ball cross-court with a reflex volley that landed cleanly. The speed of processing and execution was otherworldly.

This point highlighted Federer’s hand-eye coordination and calm under fire—qualities essential for elite net play.

10. The 2017 Shanghai Masters – Fake Drop Shot vs. Tomáš Berdych

In a semifinal match, Federer faked a drop shot, pulling Berdych forward, then whipped a deep topspin forehand to the baseline. The feint disrupted Berdych’s timing completely. The point wasn’t won by power, but by deception—a chess move in a physical sport.

Federer used misdirection like a magician, proving that mental acuity could trump brute strength.

Checklist: What Made Federer’s Greatest Points So Memorable?

• ✅ Timing and anticipation
• ✅ Unconventional shot selection under pressure
• ✅ Seamless transition between defense and offense
• ✅ Mastery of multiple surfaces
• ✅ Ability to execute under emotional and physical strain
• ✅ Aesthetic beauty combined with strategic purpose

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are Federer’s points considered more artistic than other players’?

Federer’s movement, balance, and racket control allow him to hit shots with minimal effort and maximum effect. His strokes flow naturally, often without visible strain, giving them a graceful appearance. While others rely on force, Federer relies on precision and timing—making his best points look effortless.

Did Federer plan these iconic shots, or were they spontaneous?

Most were instinctive reactions honed by years of practice. Federer has said in interviews that he doesn’t consciously decide to attempt tweeners or fake drop shots—they emerge in the moment based on feel and experience. As he once noted, “The body knows what to do when you’ve done it a thousand times.”

Which of these points had the biggest impact on his legacy?

The 2009 French Open passing shot and the 2017 Australian Open match point are arguably the most consequential. The former completed his career Grand Slam, while the latter proved he could still triumph at the highest level after a long layoff—defying age and expectation.

Conclusion: The Legacy Lives in the Details

Roger Federer’s greatness isn’t confined to trophies or statistics. It lives in the flick of a wrist, the angle of a backhand, the courage to attempt the improbable when it matters most. These 10 points are more than highlights—they are snapshots of a career built on excellence, innovation, and an unshakable love for the game.

They remind us that sports, at their best, are not just contests of strength, but expressions of human potential. Federer didn’t just play tennis—he elevated it.

💬 Which Federer point left the deepest impression on you? Share your favorite moment in the comments and celebrate the artistry of one of tennis’s true legends.