Roger Federer: Surprise admission made, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic involved

That’s the view of surprised former Wimbledon and French Open finalist Mark Philippoussis.

Federer has 20 Grand Slam titles to his name, beating the Australian to win his maiden Wimbledon title in 2003.

Indeed, he has been champion at SW19 eight times as he has won every major at least once.

Federer’s tally of 20 puts him three clear of Rafael Nadal while Novak Djokovic is joint third with 14.

The Serb is level with Pete Sampras and Philippousis has admitted he never expected anyone to beat the American quite so soon.

“If you had kind of asked me that question – no matter how good someone is it’s hard to see that happening,” Philippoussis told Metro.

“You always knew he was going to be one of the top players, you knew he would win some Slams but to win what is it, 20? No, in my opinion.

“I thought [Pete] Sampras’ record of 14 Grand Slams is going to last quite a while!

“Not only has it not lasted a while, but three guys have passed it.

“It’s incredible when you think about it. It’s unbelievable.”

Meanwhile, Roger Federer and Nadal’s biggest strengths have been discussed by tennis legend Manuel Santana.

“I love Rafa (Nadal)’s forehand,” he said.

“I like how he varies it, it’s amazing to see him play.

“On the backhand side, I like Federer.

“I would have liked to play with Rafa, struggling but I would have definitely been able to control the ball.

“People who like tennis and who like to see matches, like the show, for example the great master that is Federer, who does what he does with the ball.

“For me he is a tennis creator. I think new things will be added to win.

“Rules can change a little but the most important thing is that you keep the competition that always existed.

“I see the show and the player more together than ever.”