Federer puts Wimbledon near-miss behind him ahead of US Open

Roger Federer feels as strong as he has "in years" entering the US Open, having put behind him an epic loss to Novak Djokovic in last month's Wimbledon final.

"This is probably the best I've felt in years coming into the US Open again, which is encouraging," Federer said.

"I'm ready for the US Open. It's going to be a tough tournament to win, no doubt about it. I feel like I'm part of that group who can do it."

The 38-year-old Swiss star owns a record 20 Grand Slam singles titles but squandered two championship points in the fifth set and fell 7-6 (7/5), 1-6, 7-6 (7/4), 4-6, 13-12 (7/3) after four hours and 57 minutes -- the longest singles final in Wimbledon history.

There's still a sting for Federer to be the first player since 1948 to lose the Wimbledon men's final after being one point from victory. But he is hoping to channel the emotions positively at the US Open.

"I've been there before, had some tough losses along the way. So many great wins, as well," Federer said.

"I was ...