Federer to return to tennis for Shanghai exho

Roger Federer will break out the racquets for a one-time appearance at a celebrity doubles exhibition to be staged at the October Shanghai Masters.

The Swiss icon who turned 44 last week, won the actual tournament in 2014 and 2017 – he lost the 2010 final to Andy Murray – and has always been a cult favourite of Chinese fans.

Federer, a 20-time Grand Slam titleholder, retired three years ago next month to some fears that tennis will never be the same. 

With the one-time Big 4 now down to 38-year-old part-timer Novak Djokovic, the rise of Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz has put paid to most fears of a personality slump   

Federer announced his latest news on a social media video touting the Roger Federer and Friends Celebrity Doubles Match on October 10.

“I’m really happy to be returning to Qizhong Stadium in Shanghai (which)  has always been a special place for me with great fans, unforgettable memories, and a real love for the game.”

Further “celebrity” entries have yet to be revealed, with some likely to include Chinese participants

Main photo:-Qi Zhong Tennis Centre Shanghai, ATP Masters 2017 Roger Federer with winners trophy by Roger Parker International Sports Fotos.