For the first time since 2014, Roger Federer is ranked outside the Top 5. On top of that, 2016 marks the fourth year in a row he has not won a major title. A fan favorite world-wide, it is shocking and heart-breaking for many tennis fans to see the Swiss Maestro struggle to compete for major titles and stay healthy on tour. With the continued dominance of Novak Djokovic and the surge of Andy Murray, it seems that Federer's career is on the decline and that retirement is soon in sight.
Rather than dread the thought of Federer's absence, it's best to savor his final seasons on tour and to appreciate the excitement and talent he brought to the tennis world. With that in mind, here's a look back at the top five defining matches of Federer's illustrious career.
1. Federer d. Sampras, Wimbledon 4R 2001
The 19-year-old Federer upset the four-time defending champion 7-6(7), 5-7, 6-4, 6-7(2), 7-5 and reached the first quarterfinal of his career. Although Federer didn't win the tournament, the match served as the beginning of what would become one of the greatest careers in tennis history.
2. Federer/Wawrinka d. Aspelin/Johansson, Beijing Olympics Doubles Final 2008
After falling in the singles quarterfinals to James Blake, Federer succeeded in doubles and won the Gold medal with fellow countryman Stan Wawrinka. The Swiss duo defeated Sweden's Simon Aspelin and Thomas Johansson 6-3, 6-4, 6-7(4), 6-3.
3. Federer d. Söderling, French Open Final 2009
Coming into the tournament, Federer had yet to complete a career grand slam and win all four majors. He finally achieved that feat after defeating Robin Söderling in the final, 6-1, 7-6(1), 6-4, to win his first and only French Open title.
4. Federer d. Roddick, Wimbledon Final 2009
In one of the longest finals in grand slam history, Federer won his sixth career Wimbledon title and defeated American Andy Roddick, 5-7, 7-6(6), 7-6(5), 3-6, 16-14. The win was also Federer's 15th major title, which surpassed the previous record of 14 major titles held by Pete Sampras.
5. Federer d. Gasquet, Davis Cup Final 2014
After already winning all four majors and a gold medal, the only thing missing from Federer's résumé was a Davis Cup title. With the help of Stan Wawrinka, Federer led Switzerland to their first Davis Cup final win after defeating France's Richard Gasquet, 6-4, 6-2, 6-2 in the fourth rubber.
