Federer wants Andy Murray to reach Wimbledon final

Roger Federer has admitted that he wants Andy Murray to reach the final of Wimbledon this year.

The Scot has been widely tipped to appear in next Sunday's show-piece event following Rafael Nadal's exit on Thursday night.

Despite warning Murray that a number of challenges still await him, seven-time champion Federer is hopeful that Murray can compete in the final at SW19 for the first time.

"Just because Rafa has gone out, it doesn't mean there's nobody left in that half of the draw but Andy Murray," he told BBC Sport. "There are more players out there today who are good on grass, so maybe it's more difficult to win this tournament than it was 10 years ago.

"Andy's got a great game on grass. He's been very consistent and I hope he can make it to the final this time."

Federer and Murray are not due to meet each other until the final.