Roger Federer overtook Rafael Nadal for the top ranking by defeating Nick Kyrgios 6-7 (2), 6-2, 7-6 (5) on Saturday, vaulting him to the Stuttgart Open final.
“It’s nice that it happened but I’ve other problems,” Federer said (h/t ESPN). “I hadn’t played in three months, it’s on grass, it’s fast and difficult to get so far here. Still, I’m delighted to have achieved it.
Federer played in his first tournament since March and will play Milos Raonic as he bids for his 18th grass-court title.
Federer trailed Nadal by 100 points at the start of the week and he is guaranteed of taking the top spot on Monday regardless of how Sunday’s final pans out.