French Open 2012: Roger Federer Establishes Himself as Threat to Novak Djokovic

Roger Federer may have lost four times to Novak Djokovic last year, but he also beat him at the French Open.

Now, coming off a victory at the Madrid Open, the ageless Federer is eying a second career French Open title, and he has a good shot.

Before losing to Andy Roddick at the Ericsson Open, Federer had won 17 straight matches, proving that he could still go on runs at an older age. At the Madrid Open, he blasted through Milos Raonic, Richard Gasquet, David Ferrer, Janko Tipsarevic and Tomas Berdych.

Even after a disappointing 2011 by his standards, Federer is proving once again that the true greats find ways to win, even in their 30s. And, while the French Open has never been his best major, he won in 2009 and the clay actually benefits his style of play.

Federer naturally glides to the net. In that sense, he figures to benefit at the French Open these days because the clay is a more receptive surface to players who rush the net. On top of that, whether it was the blue clay or not, neither Rafael Nadal nor Novak Djokovic played to their potential at the Madrid Open. Federer has the momentum, and the opportunity to play mind games with Nadal and Djokovic.

Djokovic is still the best player in the world since he erupted last year, but that doesn't mean he can't be beaten. Federer is an all-time great who is still playing eye-opening tennis and that victory in Madrid had to feel good after an early exit in Miami. He could be set for another run this year. 

Federer has emerged from the depths to claim the No. 2 spot in the world this year. That's not a fluke. Expect Federer to continue his age-defying play and give Djokovic, and Nadal, a run for their money.

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