Federer Extends Big Titles Lead

Roger Federer extended his ‘Big Titles’ lead over Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal on Sunday by capturing his fourth Miami Open presented by Itau title.

If Djokovic won a record seventh trophy in Miami, he would have tied the Swiss’ top mark. But instead Federer, at 37 years old, earned his 54th Big Title – a combination of Grand Slam, Nitto ATP Finals and Masters 1000 crowns — to give himself breathing room ahead of Djokovic (52) and Rafael Nadal (50).

Federer’s form got better throughout his run in Miami, as he ultimately beat 2018 champion John Isner 6-1, 6-4 in the final. It is Federer’s 28th Masters 1000 victory, trailing only Djokovic (33) and Nadal (32). The father of four’s win marks the 16th season in which he has captured a Big Title.

While Federer has not competed on clay the past two seasons, he will have a chance to add to his Big Title total on the red dirt. The No. 1 player in the ATP Race To London is currently slated to compete at the Mutua Madrid Open and Roland Garros. The Swiss has emerged victorious in Madrid three times (twice on clay, once on hard), and he also won the Roland Garros title in 2009.

“I think what this [Miami] win does for me, it just takes even more pressure off from the clay court season,” Federer said. “I’m very excited. It’s a good challenge, good test.”

The Big Titles race will heat up on the clay as Federer, Djokovic and Nadal will all battle for the top spot. World No. 1 Djokovic will be keen to get back on track after third round and fourth round exits in Indian Wells and Miami, respectively. He has not captured a Big Title on clay courts since 2016 Roland Garros.

Nadal will be able to tie Federer’s mark if he wins all four Big Titles on clay for the second time. In 2010 the lefty triumphed at Monte-Carlo, Madrid, Rome and Roland Garros. Nadal has earned 33 of his 50 Big Titles on clay.

Did You Know?
With his victory in Miami, Federer also passed Djokovic for the lead in the ATP Race To London. It is the third straight year Federer has topped the Race upon leaving Miami. Read More

Current and Former Champions’ Big Titles Won (Records Since 1990)

* Becker’s four other Grand Slam titles came before 1990.
** Edberg’s three other Grand Slam titles came before 1990.