Father Time stalks stubborn Federer

Approaching his 33rd birthday, Swiss legend faces uphill battle to remain competitive

Roger Federer surveyed the wreckage of his worst French Open in 10 years, and despite his stubborn optimism that a record eighth Wimbledon title is within his grasp, history and time are against him.

In the immediate aftermath of Sunday's 6-7 (5), 7-6 (3), 6-2, 4-6, 6-3 loss to Ernests Gulbis, which was his earliest loss in Paris since 2004 when he was demolished in the third round by Gustavo Kuerten, Federer was talking a good game - if not necessarily playing one.