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Patrick Mouratoglou explains what made Roger Federer’s forehand so special

Photo by Graham Denholm/Getty Images
Photo by Graham Denholm/Getty Images
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Roger Federer is, arguably, the greatest tennis player of all time.

During his legendary career, the Swiss Maestro collected 103 ATP titles; the second most of all time, behind Jimmy Connors.

A total of 20 of those crowns were clinched at Grand Slams, which was an all-time record until both Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic surpassed his tally.

Federer’s strongest weapon on the court was his forehand, which Serena Williams’ former coach, Patrick Mouratoglou, said was ‘very unique’.

Roger Federer in action at the 2026 Australian Open.
Photo by Shi Tang/Getty Images

Patrick Mouratoglou discusses Roger Federer’s forehand

In a post on Instagram, Mouratoglou said: “Federer’s best shot was his forehand, and he was very unique because he was the first one to have his head turned to the right side while hitting it.

“And he was keeping it in that position after the ball was leaving his racket, like golfers.

“What was standing out the most with Roger’s forehand was his ability to take time away from his opponent with that shot and hurt them all the time.

“[He was] scoring an incredible number of winners; many of them in the second shot after the serve.”

Roger Federer of Switzerland celebrates defeating Denis Istomin of Uzbekistan during the third round of Men's Singles Tennis on Day 5 of the London 2012 Olympic Games at Wimbledon on August 1, 2012 in London, England.
Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images

John McEnroe’s praise for Roger Federer back in 2005

After winning his first major at Wimbledon in 2003, Federer began to dominate at Grand Slams, and left ex-players wondering if he might just be the greatest ever.

As per the Guardian in 2005, tennis legend John McEnroe said: “He’s the most gifted player that I’ve ever seen in my life.

“I’ve seen a lot of people play. I’ve seen the Lavers, I played against some of the great players – the Samprases, Beckers, Connors, Borgs, you name it.

“This guy could be the greatest of all time. That, to me, says it all.”

Federer was back in action at the Australian Open prior to the main draw kicking off, with the 44-year-old taking to Rod Laver Arena to compete in an exhibition match alongside Andre Agassi, Lleyton Hewitt and Patrick Rafter.