New York, Aug 4: Whenever there will be talks of Roger Federer, there will also inevitably be a mention of Rafael Nadal as his bete noire. But all that doesn't adversely influence the Swiss maestro to candidly admit that the rivalry between both of them has indeed been very special.

Federer, who turns 30 on Aug 8, is unperturbed about his drop to number three in the ATP rankings and insists that he still has it in him to fight for tennis supremacy.

The maestro was quoted as saying, "The fire has always been there clearly. I've always enjoyed my matches with both guys, particularly the rivalry with Rafa has been very special. I have massive fire and power to play against those guys."

Federer, who has won more Grand Slam title than anyone else in the history of the game, also insisted that he was not losing sleep over his rankings. He said, "I'm at peace with myself because of it. There's nothing else I can do. I'm very laid back about the situation. Sure, I'd love to be World No. 1 and not No. 3. No. 3 is a good ranking. It's not number I don't know what. I'm at peace with that."

Talking about his unprecedented Grand Slam title drought, Federer said, "I thought Wimbledon was unfortunate, but I haven't been thinking too much of what's been happening. I'm more looking forward to what's hopefully to come. Physically I'm fine. I think I have had a solid season so far. Now I feel really eager to go."

As the US Open draws closer, Federer despite his recent failings, is still the point of much attention. But this time it is a much different reason as critics and fans are beginning to wonder, if this will be his last appearance at the Flushing Meadows. Federer is quick to dismiss any such thoughts and insists that he still has a lot more to play for.

He said, "I don't feel it's my last chance, not at all. I see many more chances to come. Maybe it's the last Grand Slam of the season, fine. But still there are many more tournaments than just Grand Slams."

And added, "I know I'll be measured very often just by my Grand Slam results, which is fortunate or unfortunate depending how you look at it. My game is in a good place right now and I'm excited to see how I'm going to do at the US Open."

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