Roger Federer Must Improve at French Open 2012 to Win Title

Roger Federer moved into the quarterfinals with relative ease, but he is not going to win this tournament unless he can take his play to the next level. 

On Sunday, Federer took down David Goffin 5-7, 7-5, 6-2, 6-4. Goffin looked great early. He had Fed on the ropes, but a comeback in the second set turned things around for Federer. He dominated the rest of the way. He wore down his opponent and overpowered him. 

The win moves Federer into the quarterfinals for the 32nd consecutive time in a Grand Slam. It is a true testament to his skills and greatness as a player. 

Federer was on point with his serve in this match and he was crushing his forehand. In other words, it was vintage Federer, but as great as Federer is, he cannot win the French playing like that. 

Of his 16 Grand Slam titles, just one has come in the French. His game is better suited for faster courts, and the slower clay is set up better for Rafael Nadal. 

Nadal has taken down Federer four times in the finals of the French Open, and the two appear headed on a crash course once again. 

Federer will face the winner of the Juan Martin del Potro vs.Tomas Berdych match next. A win there will likely set him up for a showdown with Novak Djokovic. 

Fed can take Nole at that French. He did it last year, and he can do it this year. Of course, that will only set him up for a likely matchup with Rafa. 

Nadal is cruising. He looks better than ever. He has yet to lose a set at this year's tournament. He is healthy, moving well and striking the ball with confidence. Federer cannot beat Rafa on clay when he is playing like that. This has all the makings for another runner-up finish for Federer at the French.