Top Seed Federer Survives Three-Set Tsonga Challenge

Top seed Roger Federer had to pass a major test against Jo-Wilfried Tsonga 7-6(5), 4-6, 7-5 to reach his 17th Halle elite eight on Thursday.

“I thought it was tough but for me, the key was clearly to stay positive because I wasn’t down in the score, it was just only even at one-set all, and I fought as much as I could and tried to stay with him because he really was able to pick up his game, “ Federer said.

Next up for the 37-year-old nine-time Halle champion will be Roberto Bautista Agut.

Second seed Alexander Zverev beat American Steve Johnson 6-3, 7-5 to make his fifth quarterfinal of the season. Zverev withdrew from the doubles with a swollen knee.

“I am definitely happy with how things went,” said Zverev. “Obviously my knee is still swollen but the pain is much less than it was a few days ago. I hope when the swelling goes out it will be much better.”