February 16, 2018 -- Rotterdam, Netherlands
At 36 years old, Roger became the oldest man in history to take over the number one spot on the ATP. Yet another milestone captured by the Swiss star and celebrated by players, coaches and fans old and young.
Facing Robin Hasse in his Quarterfinal match, Roger just needed to clinch the win to take the number one spot, however Hasse was not going to make it easy. Hasse cam out strong and looked to pose a challenge for Roger after taking the first set. Unfortunately as the match went on, Hasse seemed to struggle with some health issues, even throwing up on the side of the court. But nothing phased Roger as ge settled in and showed the world why he is number one consolidating the win 4-6, 6-1, 6-1.
He surpasses both Andre Agassi and Serena Williams number 1 records and adds another accomplishment to his resume by holding the number one spot on tour as the oldest person.
“Reaching No 1 is one of, if not the ultimate achievement in our sport,” Roger said. “Sometimes at the beginning you just kind of get there because you played so well but later you have to fight for it and have to wrestle it back from someone who deserves to be there. When you are older you maybe have to put double the work in. This maybe means the most to me in my career.”
The tournament isn't over yet for Roger as he faces Andres Seppi in the semifinals.