I don’t want to be the one who rains on the parade as it was fantastic to witness Roger Federer back on a clay court in 3 years however with his Madrid run over have some question be answered?

Of course!

Federer can still dance on the dirt I think if anyone doubted that ability after a few years it has been proved wrong but how far can he take it?

I think we’ve seen the level we’re going to get.

Federer should have wrapped this match up against Thiem with multiple match points in the second set but couldn’t.

The third set got away from him quite quickly and he tried rushing things at the net and Thiem picked him off quite efficiently. He did break back to level for 4-4 but then played another wild service game as Thiem powered through to win.

Roger’s level in Madrid was very good and he played at a high level but even if he would have won the match I would have still had some questions in my mind…

That question is, Paris?

This for me is the big question. I don’t think Roger was coming back just to try and win in Madrid or Rome as the main prize is Paris.

I think over three sets he can compete at a high level against other top players but I’m thinking in the future and over five sets?

I be honest I just don’t see it!

I expect another good week from Roger next week in Rome ahead of the second major of the year where he can definitely cause some trouble.

One thing that was evident in Madrid was how well loved and the incredible reception he got being missed by all at this wonderful event!