Federer feels he is peaking for another title tilt

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Roger Federer has almost forgotten what it is like not to compete in the closing stages of a grand slam and will aim to continue that run when he faces Russia's Igor Andreev in the U.S. Open fourth round on Tuesday.

The four-times champion has contested 17 consecutive slam semi-finals and, despite critics predicting his early demise in New York after a lean season in which he has won just two low-key titles, Federer said he was ready to silence his detractors.

"I remember those first-round losses at slams, back in the day when the pressure was on," the Swiss said referring to his poor record before he won his first Wimbledon crown in 2003.

"This is nothing anymore. This is easy to handle today. Of course, I'm very proud and happy about my run at the majors, and it's always nice to be a part of the final group, either the final four or final two. That's what it's about.

"That's why I work out hard. I feel like it could happen here again," added the world number two, who lost his top ranking status to Rafael Nadal two weeks ago.

While Federer has yet to drop a set in New York and appears to be peaking at the right time, Novak Djokovic will be keen to avoid another exhausting session on Arthur Ashe court.

The Serbian third seed was extended to four sets during a four-hour marathon against Marin Cilic in the previous round and could face another tough encounter against Spaniard Tommy Robredo.

Andy Roddick will be in action against Olympic silver medalist Fernando Gonzalez.

In the women's quarter-finals, Beijing champion Elena Dementieva should face her first real test in New York against Swiss 15th seed Patty Schnyder. Jelena Jankovic has so far had a bumpy ride and will be hoping for an easier outing against Austrian Sybille Bammer.

(Reporting by Pritha Sarkar; Editing by Ed Osmond)