Roger Federer knows his time in running short.
The rejuvenated Swiss star, who is making his ascent back up the rankings with an impressive start to the 2014 season, won his 20th match of the young season with a 6-4, 7-6 (4) victory over Ivo Karlovic in the second round of the Sony Open on Friday.
Federer made three unforced errors and lost three points on his serve against the 6-foot-11 Croat, showing off his improved play from his subpar 2013 season, in which injuries caused Federer to drop to No. 8 in the world.
The question remains, how much longer can the 32-year-old Federer keep competing at a high level? The immediate answer is fewer than nine months.
Tennis.com is reporting that Federer will take time off this year to be with his wife Mirka, who is expecting their third child.
The couple has twin daughters, and Federer announced they are expecting this year but has not announced a due date, according to tennis.com.
"We'll see. It's clearly a top priority for me, being there and being supportive at one of the most incredible experiences," Federer told reporters ahead of Miami, tennis.com reported. "That's why I wouldn't want to miss it for the world.
"After that I will go back on tour when the time is right. We'll figure it out."
While Federer's priorities clearly are in order, it is a shame that Federer will be out for a portion of the 2014 season when he's playing so well. He has split matches this year with world No. 2 Novak Djokovic and is clearly in the hunt to knock Rafael Nadal from the No. 1 position this season.
If Federer can somehow climb to No. 1 one more time, that arguably would solidify his position as the greatest tennis player of all time. And though he is back on top of his game, he will turn 33 in August and time is running against him.
Will Roger Federer's absence to be with his wife when she gives birth affect his tennis? Tell us @SportsWN.
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