Federer piles praise on compatriot Bencic

By Niko VercellettoPublished February 27, 2019

With Roger Federer going for his record-extending eighth trophy in Dubai—and 100th overall—it's safe to say that the world No. 7 is the king of the United Arab Emirates.

Though he may not need it, he can take some inspiration this week from his Swiss comrade Belinda Bencic.

The 21-year0old took home the title on the women's side last Saturday. Federer congratulated her in an interview, praising her ability to take down four Top-10 players on her way to the trophy.

Roger Federer on @BelindaBencic's #DDFTennis title run:

"I thought the way she did it was tremendous, beating four top-10 players in exhilarating matches, to be honest. I think that was wonderful for her."pic.twitter.com/HhZjFB0CwD
— Reem Abulleil (@ReemAbulleil) February 25, 2019

Federer has continued his success in Dubai, recording his 50th win at the tournament by defeating Fernando Verdasco, 6-3, 3-6, 6-3 on Wednesday.

2019 Dubai: R. Federer vs F. Verdasco Round 2 Match Point

He will face Marton Fucsovics in the quarterfinals.

2019 Week 9 Promo

ATP/WTA Acapulco

• Rafael Nadal, Alexander Zverev and Sloane Stephens headline the Abierto Mexicano Telcel. Watch live coverage on Tennis Channel Plus beginning Monday, 2/25 at 5:00 pm ET.

ATP Dubai

• Watch Roger Federer and Kei Nishikori live from the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championship starting Monday, 2/25 at 5:00 am ET

ATP Sao Paulo

• Tennis Channel Plus features live coverage of the Brasil Open beginning Monday, 2/25 at 10:30 am ET