Federer poised for fairytale of New York

NEW YORK, Aug 24 (AFP): Roger Federer hopes to mark the 10th anniversary of his first US Open title with a sixth triumph in New York and become the oldest Grand Slam champion in more than 40 years.
In an astonishing reversal of fortunes, the 33-year-old, written off as a relic of the game when he slipped to a fourth round loss to Tommy Robredo 12 months ago, finds himself perfectly positioned to win a staggering 18th major.
Buoyed by claiming a sixth Cincinnati title-his 80th career crown-and with long-time rival Rafael Nadal again sidelined with injury, the Swiss is relishing the twilight of his career.
His last-16 loss to Robredo in 2013 in New York meant it was the first year since 2002 that he had failed to make a Grand Slam final. The defeat also marked the first time in 10 years that he hadn't made at least the last-eight at Flushing Meadows.
Suddenly, his five consecutive US Open titles from 2004-2008 appeared a detail in history and his 17th and most recent major success-the 2012 Wimbledon title-looked certain to be his last.