Back in 2015 Federer debuted a new manoeuvre to his game which has been labelled the SABR (sneak attack by Roger).
It features Federer moving up the court on an opponent’s second serve to hit a half-volley in an attempt to throw them off guard.
It works in large effect because Federer’s opponents never know when he may opt to use it and it often puts them off balance.
Boris Becker and John McEnroe have both spoken against the move, suggesting it is disrespectful to Federer’s opponents.
However, the 36-year-old has defended himself by simply claiming he doesn’t see why it would be disrespectful.
Edberg admits he was shocked when he first saw the SABR, but went on to say he isn’t sure whether it should be allowed.
“In his sneak attack, Roger brought something interesting and new to the game,” Edberg told the Mumbai Mirror.
“I don’t sort of agree with the views on it.
“Roger not only went for it, he executed the shot so well. I don’t think many players can do it.
“Whether SABR should be permissible or not…I somehow found it very interesting. At the same time it was shocking, but he won most of the points from it.
“If you do it 10 times and win six-seven points, the percentages are on your side.
“If you do a sneak attack the way Roger did and lose every point, you are going to stop doing it.”
