According to Federer, the ATP Stuttgart Open’s new schedule will allow a timely warm up for Wimbledon. PHOTO: AFP
Organisers announced their coup on Monday, claiming Federer had agreed to play in the tournament, which switched from clay to grass for the first time back in June, beyond next year.
Having been post-Wimbledon this year, the ATP Stuttgart Open will be played before the grass court Grand Slam in 2016.
“I watched the first [grass court] edition on television, it had a great atmosphere. I’ve always wanted to play at Stuttgart, but it was always the wrong time after Wimbledon,” said Federer. “Now that they’ve moved dates, the chance to play the Mercedes Cup is very exciting — I can’t wait.”
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The seven-time Wimbledon champion also said he was happy there would be an extra week between the end of the French Open and the start of Wimbledon next year, giving players more time to adapt to the switch from clay to grass.
“It’s genius to have an extra week. It doesn’t sound like much, but for us players it’s a lot,” said the 34-year-old. “I love playing on grass — always have, always will. To play another tournament on grass is great for me. I can manage my energy and schedule. It’s all about winning titles.”
Previously, Federer had been coy about his long-term future, committing only to his schedule next year.
Published in The Express Tribune, November 25th, 2015.
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