Roger Federer has praised Andy Roddick following the announcement that the American will retire after the US Open.
Roddick confirmed his intentions on Thursday evening and Federer has admitted that the former world champion is one of the hardest players he has faced in his own career.
Speaking after his victory over Bjorn Phau in the second round, Federer told Sky Sports News: "Oh man, he's a great man. I've had some great battles with him. I've known him a long, long time.
"The Wimbledon finals come to mind when we've played each other, but he was a great, great competitor and a great champion."
Roddick faces Bernard Tomic on the Arthur Ashe Court tomorrow evening.
