Tomic takes swipe at Federer

Bernard Tomic has taken a swipe at Roger Federer, saying the 17-time grand slam champion is “nowhere near” Novak Djokovic.

Tomic became Australia’s last man standing at Melbourne Park when he dispatched compatriot John Millman in straight sets during the early hours of Sunday morning.

The 23-year-old quickly turned his attention to a fourth-round Australian Open clash with Andy Murray.

But not before returning serve to Federer, who publicly doubted Tomic’s top-10 aspirations earlier this month.

“He has his predictions. I think he’s also far away from Djokovic as well, if he wants to say that,” Tomic said.

“If he believes I’m very far away from the top 10, I also believe my prediction that he’s nowhere near Novak’s tennis right now.

“It also motivates me.”

Federer observed Tomic played very well at the Brisbane International but added “the top 10 is another story”.

“Many seasons now in a row we have seen or heard that top 10 is the goal (of Tomic) and he’s missed out on it by a long shot,” the Swiss maestro added.