Belinda Bencic Opens Up on Compatriot Roger Federer

Swiss female tennis player Belinda Bencic has said that she wishes to be as calm as Roger Federer. Her statement came ahead of her maiden Dubai Tennis Championships victory over Petra Kvitova.

So far, injuries have blighted Bencic’s progress in the last few editions. However, the world number 45 has already begun her climb up the rankings again.

As it turns out, she is using the time spent partnering Federer at the Hopman Cup to inspire her.

“I’m trying to be as calm as him,” said Bencic speaking to the WTA website. “I know I’m far, far, far away from that. [But] I’m trying.”

On the road to the Dubai Duty Free Championship title, Bencic even managed to see off the challenge of Elina Svitolina in the semifinal.

Kvitova bested Bencic during the Australian Open but the former world number seven has finally got her revenge.

The 21-year old even spoke about what she learned from Roger Federer during their time as teammates at the Hopman Cup.

“It would be wrong if it didn’t help me,” she said. “I definitely think the Hopman Cup gives me so much. It’s actually my favourite event of the year, just playing with all those champions.”

She continued, “There were so many this year; it’s amazing to playing against them and with them. You can learn really so much.”