I don’t know why I’m struggling, says Roger Federer after shock defeat

Down and out: Roger Federer congratulates Tomas Berdych on winning today but the world No1 has a lot to think about
13 April 2012

Roger Federer crashed out of the Sony Ericsson Open today and then admitted he is struggling to pinpoint the reason for his loss of form.

The world No1's 6-4, 6-7, 7-6 fourth‑round defeat to 16th seed Tomas Berdych was his second early exit this month following his loss to Marcos Baghdatis at Indian Wells.

That tournament was his first since beating Andy Murray to win the Australian Open and although he had a lung infection in February, Federer fears there could be other factors for his recent error-strewn displays.

The Swiss, who could only convert two of 12 break-point opportunities in Miami, said: "It was a tough match. It's no secret I've struggled in the last five matches I've played in the States.

"Overall, my performance was disappointing but I fought as much as I could with my game having issues at the moment. I'm definitely lacking timing. I don't know where that comes from because I played so nicely in Australia. Maybe the sickness did take it out of me more than I thought."

This was the first time Berdych had seen off Federer in nine matches and the Czech said: "To beat the No1 player in the world is a great feeling"

Rafa Nadal beat Spanish compatriot David Ferrer 7-6, 6-4 and is now the highest seed left in the event.

American Mardy Fish, who knocked out Andy Murray, retired when trailing 6-1, 1-0 against Russia's Mikhail Youzhny after injuring his sciatic nerve during the first set.

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