Australian Open 2012: Why Roger Federer Needs Major Win More Than Anyone Else

The 2012 Australian Open is heating up, and no other player needs to win this Grand Slam event more than Roger Federer. 

Last season was the first time Federer didn't win a Grand Slam since 2002, which is one the reasons he needs to take home this year's Australian Open title. 

Another is the fact that winning big to start off 2012 will do wonders not only for this season, but also his career. 

At the age of 30, it's a mystery how much longer Federer will be playing tennis. He dominated the sport in the early 2000's, but younger guys are on the rise and taking over. 

Federer has cruised through his first few matches, having yet to drop a set. He was blessed with a gift from one of his opponents, who had to withdraw because of a back injury.

Of course, Federer would have likely crushed him anyway, but more rest for this older star is always good, especially with a match against arch-rival Rafael Nadal looming ahead. 

This is the first time since 2005 that Federer and Nadal are on the same draw, and should they meet in the semifinals it will likely be more entertaining than the actual final. 

2011 was a forgetful year for Federer, which is exactly why he needs to annihilate the competition and win the 2012 Australian Open. 

This, of course, will not be easy.

Other than Nadal, Federer has to worry about a possible title match against Novak Djokovic, who is playing better than anyone in the world right now. 

Because Djokovic has emerged as the top player, Federer needs to step it up and reclaim the title of best player in the world. 

Should Federer reach the finals and beat Djokovic, he will have pulled off a very incredible run, helping make his case for greatest tennis player ever. 

Federer is getting up there in age, and since he's coming off a down year, the tennis star needs to win the 2012 Australian Open to once again be feared by all.