Federer to play on clay at Madrid Open

Roger Federer confirmed his participation for this year's Madrid Open on Wednesday, marking his return to the European clay court season after two years away.

Federer, whose sole French Open title came in 2009, has preferred to skip the European clay season over the last two seasons to manage his schedule.

He is the second most successful player of all time at the Madrid Open (three titles), picked up his first trophy (2006) when the tournament was played on indoor hardcourt in October, his second (2009) in the first year in the Caja Mágica and his third three seasons later (2012).

“Federer is one of the best players of all time, it’s no secret”, said Feliciano López, the Director of the Mutua Madrid Open. “We are happy because his return to Madrid is a gift to the tournament, but above all the fans will be able to see a unique player in the Caja Mágica. Having the Swiss player back on clay with Djokovic and Nadal is going to be unmissable”.

“Roger’s presence in the Caja Mágica will make this year’s Mutua Madrid Open special”, said Manolo Santana, Honorary President of the tournament. “It doesn’t matter that he’s 37 because he still has that unmistakable class; the innate talent that has made him one of the best of all time. Being able to enjoy his tennis is something that no fan of the sport should miss”.

Federer is also set to play at the French Open for the first time since 2015.

Date: 20 February 2019, Source: Reuters and Madrid Open