The question seemed to be a compliment. Sure, Novak Djokovic's run of dominance in recent times has been impressive. But did the Serb star have to overcome the same calibre of player that Federer faced throughout the mid-2000s, when the Swiss maestro was revered as the world's best player? 
But it was not a question that Federer seemed interested in investing in after he succumbed in four sets to Djokovic in the semi-final of the Australian Open.
"You've got to be careful how to phrase the question," Federer, 34, said after a few seconds of silence.
"You don't want to disrespect the other players. You don't have to face them, I've got to face them." He then labelled the query a "stupid question".
It's not often Federer has had to defend his credentials. But he went to significant lengths to back his form after the loss to Djokovic, who won three grand slams in 2015 and this weekend will play his sixth Australian Open final.
"I have self-confidence ... that doesn't fade away very quickly," Federer said.
"I know it's not easy. I never thought it was easy. But best-of-three (sets), best-of-five ... I can run for four or five hours - it's not a problem.
"I know you guys (in the media) make it a different case - I get that because you think I'm old and all that - but it's no problem for me. It doesn't scare me when I go into a big match against any player who's in their prime right now."
"Tennis hopeful Sara Tomic bowed out of the Australian Open juniors tournament on Friday, losing her semi-final against Vera Lapko in straight sets.
The Belarusian was quicker around the court and hit more winners than Tomic, who lost 6-2, 6-3.
But the young Australian did manage four aces and made fewer unforced errors than her opponent.
As the rain came down at Melbourne Park, Tomic's match was moved indoors to Hisense Arena and a small crowd gathered as the game went on.
FRIDAY'S RESULTS
Mixed doubles, semi-finals:
Coco Vandeweghe (US)/Horia Tecau (Rom)
d Andreja Klepac (Slo)/Treat Huey (Phi)
6-4, 6-4.
Girls' singles, semi-finals:
5-Vera Lapko (Bel)
d Sara Tomic (Aus) 6-2, 6-3.
Tereza Mihalikova (Svk)
d Rebeka Masarova (Swi) 6-3, 6-3.