Wimbledon 2018: Top 9 contenders for the men's title

Roger Federer should be fired up to win his record extending 9th Wimbledon title

Similar to the Australian Open, Federer is the surprising odds-on favourite to retain his title. The career renaissance he has experienced in 2017 has carried over to 2018.

The Swiss ace made a great start to the grass court season by winning his first Stuttgart Open. He entered the Halle Open as the 9-time champion and was expected to become a 10-time champion. However, while he looked impressive in Stuttgart against a slew of high-quality opponents, he appeared shaky throughout the Halle tournament.

Federer had some long matches at Halle with many sets going into a tie-break. He was eventually beaten by Borna Coric in the final, with fatigue probably playing a significant role.

He now has an entire week to rest and recuperate so that he comes back fresh to challenge for a record-extending ninth Wimbledon title. The Swiss maestro will really need to pick up his game if he hopes to defend his title.

That said, after looking through the field and their recent grasscourt experience, Federer appears to be the best choice to lift the trophy for the ninth time. Again, this is remarkable considering his age (he will complete 37 years in August).

As long as he stays fit and does not have too many lengthy matches before the final, the Swiss maestro will do whatever he can to win his 99th title at his favorite tournament. It will take a real special performance from his opponent to deny him.

If Federer does win, it will be his first successful Wimbledon title defense since 2007.