Roger Federer's surprise decision
For the first time since 2015, Roger Federer will compete in the Madrid Open, it was confirmed on Wednesday.
For the past two years, the tennis champion has opted out of the clay-court season to allow his body to recover for tournaments on his ideal surfaces of grass and hard court.
But the 37-year-old is straying away from the path he usually walks on, by trying different things in 2019. In January, Federer revealed that he was considering playing at the French Open this year.
And now, the Madrid Open has announced that he will be competing in this year’s tournament.
“Federer is one of the best players in history, it’s no secret,” said the Madrid Open’s tournament director, Feliciano Lopez.
“We are happy because his return to Madrid is a gift for the tournament but above all for the fans, because they will be able to see a player that is unique and unparalleled.”
Federer, who is widely considered as the GOAT of tennis, has won the Madrid Open three times, in 2006, 2009 and 2012.
But 2015 was the last time he played, after his opening match loss to Australian player Nick Kyrgios.
The 20-time grand slam champion is not one to enjoy playing on surfaces made of clay, but it seems as if he’s ready to take a leap of faith.
“I am in a moment where I want to have fun,” said Federer when questioned about his decision. “It’s a personal desire. I feel like I don’t need to take a big break again.”
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