Roger Federer's lead as world No.1 has dwindled to 350 points going into Indian Wells, whilst Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic are in hot pursuit of his throne. This is probably the closest margin since May 10, 2004 when Federer led No.2 Andy Roddick by the same figure.

Is the Federer Express's position being threatened, and will his reign soon come to an end?

An interesting tournament to watch will be the ongoing Pacific Life Open, running until March 23 in San Diego, California. The No.1 spot can't change positions at this event since Nadal is defending title points (500) while Federer lost in the opening round (5). But, depending on the results of both players in Indian Wells, the No.1 position could be up for grabs going into Miami.

'Is the Federer Express's position being threatened, and will his reign soon come to an end?'


Nadal has quarter final points to defend (125) while Federer has fourth round points coming off (75). Federer has ranked a record 215 consecutive weeks at No.1 since Feb. 2, 2004 while Nadal has been No.2, a record 138 straight weeks (since July 25, 2005).

Let’s all wait and see. But however you look at it, Federer is showing signs of vulnerability and the pack of players behind him sense this in many ways. Whoever sneaks in first would need a lot of luck but would be famous as the player who dethroned one of the legends of the sport.