The Swiss is enjoying a great year, reaching the final at Australian Open and then winning his eighth Wimbledon title in July.

Federer, aged 36, reminded us all of the times he was untouchable at the top, but still admits it would be a "joke" if he wins a third Grand Slam next week.

Federer's condition at the moment is not the best, as he felt pain in the back during the Rogers Cup and then withdrew from the Cincinnati Masters.

He returned to training this week, and with less than 10 days until US Open starts, he and his camp believe he will be in shape to participate.

His agent Tony Godsick told the New York Post:: "He’s had this before. 

"Hopefully his back will respond and if everybody’s healthy, he has as good a chance as anyone else. He’s never played under the new roof and he’s the best indoor player in the world if that happens.’’

Federer won his first major trophy back in 2003, and has added an incredible 18 more afterwards.

His long-term coach Severin Luthi says he remains ‘hungry and willing’ even after all these years and trophies behind his back.

"I don’t like to compare [his form now] to a few years ago and it is difficult to. Most important for us is that Roger is still hungry and willing to improve every day. After everything he has done and already won, the results this year have been amazing."

"The Maestro" enters the US Open ranked third, just behind Andy Murray and the new number one in ATP - Rafael Nadal.

Federer holds a positive 1-0 record against Murray in this tournament (a 6-2, 7-5, 6-2 win during the 2008 final), but has never played against his long-time rival Nadal at Flushing Meadows.

The three of them are front runners to win US Open and hopefully Federer's back will not cause him problems on the course for his third Grand Slam this year.