Federer Wins, Equals Borg Twice

Jul 09, 05:00 AM

Current Headlines: By Douglas Robson

WIMBLEDON, England -- How fitting that Roger Federer equaled Bjorn Borg's Open-era record with his fifth consecutive Wimbledon title Sunday on a Centre Court devoid of its traditional outer roof. There seems no ceiling on how high the Swiss maestro can soar.

"If he continues the way he is doing, keeps his motivation and stays away from injuries, he's going to be the greatest who ever played the game," said the Swedish legend Borg, who won five championships from 1976 to 1980 and watched from the Royal Box as Federer staved off Spanish nemesis Rafael Nadal 7-6 (9-7), 4-6, 7-6 (7-3), 2-6, 6-2 in an epic final.

Federer, 25, has won 11 of the last 17 Grand Slam tournaments, beginning with his first Wimbledon title in 2003. The 11 ties him for third in men's tennis history, with Borg and Rod Laver, three behind Pete Sampras' record 14.

"It was a huge occasion for me, huge pressure," said Federer, who crumpled to the turf in tears as former champs Borg, John McEnroe, Jimmy Connors and Boris Becker looked on. "It's a very special memory. I'll have it for all my life." (c) Copyright 2005 USA TODAY, a division of Gannett Co. Inc.