Roger Federer has paid homage to his trusted former Australian coaches for helping shape the most prolific grand slam performer men's tennis has seen.
In a poignant tribute to Peter Carter, who died in a car accident in South Africa a week before Federer's 21st birthday, the ageless maestro says the South Australian moulded him as a man and player and remains the most influential mentor of his storied career.
"Peter Carter had the biggest impact on me in terms of my technique. That's what so many people talk about," Federer told AAP as he celebrated his unforgettable Australian Open final triumph over Rafael Nadal.
"When they talk about my effortless style and technique, I guess. I was able to perfect in later in my life, but he set the foundation and that's why I'm so happy that his parents were at the finals yesterday and saw me win.
"That really meant a lot to me."
Federer was already a four-time major winner before linking up with another Australian great in Tony Roche, the ex-coach of fellow former world No.1s Ivan Lendl and Pat Rafter.
The Swiss collected another six slams under Roche's guidance.
"Rochey, like every coach I've had, took me to the next level," Federer said.
"He made me work extremely hard. I like the old-school work ethic that Rochey brought to the table.
"He had a winning mentality and every day we had together was a great one.
"It was definitely something special with Peter and Rochey."
Among other records he's set, Federer is now the first man to win three of tennis's four annual grand slam events at least five times each.
"This is a tournament I've not missed. I've missed the French. I've missed the US Open last year. This is the one I guess that is my most consistent slam potentially," he said.
"It all started for me here. I played the qualies here in '99, the juniors in '98.
"Won my first match maybe against Michael Chang here back in 2000. I go way back. Always loved coming here."
