Federer credits wife for the triumph, Cilic rues ‘unfavourable’ playing conditions for the loss

Roger Federer holding the trophy after his win (L) and Marin Cilic (R) [Photo: Courtesy]

Roger Federer has credited his wife Mirka with keeping him motivated and still going strong at 36, although his longevity has "many pieces to the puzzle".

The Swiss master won his 20th Grand Slam title at the Australian Open on Sunday when he defeated Marin Cilic 6-2, 6-7 (5/7), 6-3, 3-6, 6-1.

The latest triumph -- his sixth at Melbourne Park -- came 15 years after he won his first major at Wimbledon in 2003, yet he continues to defy time when many of his contemporaries have fallen by the wayside.

He said having a supportive partner was key to him still being able to do what he loves, with wife Mirka courtside for most of his big games, despite now having four children to look after.

This, coupled with a careful schedule, has allowed him to remain at the top, with no thoughts of calling it quits any time soon.

"I think by not overplaying, not playing every tournament possible," he said on what keeps him going.

"I enjoy practice, don't mind the travel. Having a great team around me, they make it possible."

"Then, of course, my wife who makes it all possible. Without her support, I wouldn't be playing tennis no more since many years.

"But we had a very open conversation, if she was happy to do this or not, years ago. I'm happy that she's super supportive, and she's willing to take on a massive workload with the kiddies.

"Same for me, because I wouldn't want to be away from my kids for more than two weeks. This life wouldn't work if she said no."

Federer also takes pleasure in seeing his parents, Lynette and Robert, enjoying watching him play and travelling to tournaments.

"At the end it's seeing that my parents are incredibly proud and happy that I'm still doing it," he said.

"They enjoy coming to tournaments. That makes me happy and play better.

"Many puzzles need to fit together for me to be able to sit here tonight," he added.

Meanwhile, Marin Cilic has accused the organisers for the decision to close the roof on Rod Laver Arena for the Australian Open final Sunday. Cilic lamented the decision as he said that he was not prepared to play under the cooler conditions.

"You know, throughout the tournament I played all my matches outdoors, also (I was) preparing for a hot day, 38 degrees," Said Cilic.

"Then first match, for the final, to play with the roof closed, it's difficult. I have to say that decision, could it have been different? I guess so.” He added.

But on their defence, the tournament organisers argued that the decision was arrived at after successful research that involved the experts.

"The tournament referee made this decision based on qualified and professional advice from the Bureau of Meteorology who are on site, and the tournament's chief medical officer,” said the org