Roger Federer beat Milos Raonic in an enthralling final at the Brisbane Tennis International to register his 1,000th ATP career win and complete the perfect build up to this month's Australian Open.
The Swiss tennis player Roger Federer in action. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Federer survived the inevitable serving blitz from the towering Canadian to win the two hour 13 minute slugfest 6-4 6-7(2) 6-4 and join Jimmy Connors (1,253) and Ivan Lendl (1,071) as the only men to reach the magical milestone.
The Swiss world number two also chalked up his 83rd career title and has now won at least one tournament every year since 2001, an unbroken streak spanning 15 seasons.
Roy Emerson, a 12-time grand slam winner, and Rod Laver, the only tennis player to win all four majors in the same year on two separate occasions, were involved in the post-match presentation.
Federer said it was a special moment and a match he'll never forget.
Raonic, one of the emerging stars of men's tennis since making the semi-finals at Wimbledon last year was gracious in defeat and also paid tribute to the 33-year-old, saying he was in awe of his achievements.
Raonic was unable to dictate terms once Federer adapted to his booming serve but pushed his opponent all the way in a high-quality match where the pair hit a combined total of 92 clean winners.
