On the eve of Sunday’s final, Federer opted to prepare with Bopanna, who is a doubles specialist.
Then the following day, Federer won his 20th Grand Slam in a five-set match against Marin Cilic.
And the 37-year-old Indian says the opportunity to practice with Federer before the final is always a chance to learn.
Bopanna said: “That’s the beauty of the sport. Sometimes you think you’re right there. We had a match point and I didn’t even get to touch the ball. At three points – two aces and a return winner – the match was over.
“I felt like I never even was in for a chance to try and win despite being that close
“I’ve known Roger for such a long time, right from our first match in Halle in 2006.
“We’ve practiced together numerous times and even paired up in doubles for IPTL, but there’s just nothing like playing with him.
“He’s so much fun and there’s just so much you can learn from him from just the way he conducts himself.
“The only tough part is that the intensity of the session is so high with balls coming at you constantly that after two minutes I need a water break.”
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