“We hit some balls together, just so you don’t lose the touch”- When Roger Federer revealed then-girlfriend Mirka’s role in his ATP Finals 2003 win

Back in 2003, Roger Federer revealed that his practice for the Tennis Masters Cup had been exceptionally brief.

"I left Wednesday," he said. "So I had a few - four days, that's all."

This came on the back of a disappointing campaign at the Paris Masters, where Federer experienced an early defeat. Speaking about his form at the time, Federer admitted:

"Few days off, good preparation and, you know, I'm back, I guess. I don't know, it's tough to answer."

At the 2003 Tennis Masters Cup in Houston, Roger Federer rebounded strongly from his Paris disappointment. His exceptional play prompted praise from none other than Andre Agassi.

In response to Agassi's compliments, particularly about the quality of the first set, Federer said:

"I think I agree with him. It's really been a great match from beginning to start."

Roger Federer, in a moment of personal reflection about his win at the 2003 Tennis Masters Cup, shared a unique aspect of his preparation. He said he had practiced just once before the tournament, a casual 45-minute session with his then-girlfriend, now wife, Mirka.

Reflecting on this unusual preparation, Federer remarked with a smile:

"Yeah. One time. With my girlfriend, 45 minutes. We hit some balls together, just so you don't lose the touch. I guess she gave it to me. I'm happy about that."

Roger Federer's performance record in the ATP finals

Roger Federer at the 2023 Shanghai Rolex Masters

The ATP Finals, the season-ending championship featuring the top eight male tennis players in the world, has witnessed many legendary figures grace its courts. Among the numerous talents that have competed in this event, Roger Federer's achievements stand out.

Federer first participated in this event in 2002, and impressively made 14 straight appearances up to 2015. He has won the tournament six times, sharing this record with Novak Djokovic for the most wins in the event's history. His victories came in the years 2003, 2004, 2006, 2007, 2010, and 2011.

In terms of match wins Federer has accumulated 59 victories at the ATP Finals. Additionally, Federer has reached the final of the ATP Finals 10 times, the most by any player in the history of the event.