Australian Open 2012: Why Roger Federer Is Still a Threat to Win It All

Roger Federer may have taken a backseat to Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal in 2011, but don't expect him to fade off into the sunset at the 2012 Australian Open.

The Australian Open provides Federer with the opportunity to start anew, and put last year's solid, but less than impressive, season behind him. For most athletes, going 64-12 and raking in just under $6.4 million in prize money would be a satisfying campaign, but Federer isn't most athletes.

In 2011, the world saw flashes of the Federer it was once accustomed to watching. His footwork was solid, his forehand was monstrous yet consistent, and his ability to track down every ball was anything but obsolete. 

That being said, in 2011, we also saw, for all intents and purposes, the humanized version Federer that was first brought to light in 2008, months after contracting mononucleosis. Lengthy matches didn't favor him and he visibly struggled with his backhand at times, especially on the run.

It's a fresh season though, and Federer is poised to silence his critics, and there couldn't be a better setting than the Australian Open to do, as it is where his apparent demise began with a loss to Djokovic in the 2008 semifinals.

Federer may have had his share of trials and tribulations last year, but he closed out 2011 in style, winning the ATP Tour World Finals in November, along with two additional indoor titles. His strong finish is not only indicative of how much fire he has left, but it also has served as a huge confidence booster.

Confidence is an attribute that should never be discounted, especially at this stage in Federer's career. Like many other professional sports, 30 is a dreaded age in the world of tennis. As mobility, stamina and overall athleticism begin to decline, it can be difficult to maintain a strong sense of motivation and self-optimism. Heading into the Australian Open, however, it's clear that Federer is one of the exceptions.

"I think it's only helpful that I finished so strong," said Federer. "I feel really confident when I'm hitting the ball. So I'm feeling really good."

It's been quite awhile since we witnessed a Federer who held such optimism and exhibited a bounty of bravado, and that's only bad news for the participants in this year's tournament, including the red hot Djokovic.

Momentum is as important as any other aspect of the game, especially when beginning a new campaign. Federer's health and durability will continue to be questioned, but if last year's finish was any indication, there is nothing to immediately worry about.

Federer may no longer have his youth, but he still has the ability to exude dominance. Combine that with his recaptured confidence and optimism, and you have the Federer of old, not an older Federer.

Even on an off day or during the heart of a bad stretch, Federer is better than most of the world's players. At the top of his game though, there are few, outside of Nadal on a clay court and a perfect Djokovic, who can take down the Switzerland native. 

Federer finished 2011 at the top if his game, and all indications are that he'll kick off 2012 in similar fashion.

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