Roger Federer conducted a meeting with a group of Dutch journalists yesterday as he confirms that he will play at the ABN Amro tournament in Rotterdam next year.
Federer has won the tournament twice in his career, 2005 and 2012. Since his debut in 1999, Federer has played 29 main draw matches in the tournament, winning 23 of them. He cited the tournament as good preparation for the Indian Wells Masters.
“Rotterdam offers me a good preparation for the tournament in Indian Wells and it brings me back to Europe, so that my children can ski in the snow. Moreover, Rotterdam is one of my favourite tournaments to play. I have very fond memories of it tournament, especially on my debut in 1999 and my titles in 2005 and 2012.” Federer said.
During the meeting Federer talked openly about approaching the end of his career and admitted that the Rotterdam tournament, which takes place in February, could be the last time that he will play in the Netherlands.
“At this moment I have no plans to stop, and I hope to return after 2016 in Rotterdam. But certainly at my age may there may come a time when it’s over“. Federer admitted.
During the press conference the 17-time Grand Slam champion said that he was not scared of ending his career. Since 2001 Federer has won 87 titles which includes 17 Grand Slam titles, 24 Masters title and 6 ATP year-end Final titles.
“I would have peace with it if it was tomorrow. Actually, I have that feeling for a long time. It could just end up this way, for example through injury”. He said.
Throughout this year that 34-year-old has shrugged off talk of retirement in numerous press conferences. Shortly after his US Open defeat to Novak Djokovic, Federer pledged to return to the tournament next year by ending his media briefing with ‘I’ll see you guys next year’. 2016 will be his 18th year on the tour.
The former world No.1 also talked about his plans for the 2016 Olympics. He confirmed that he will make a decision in December regarding whether he will play in the doubles as well as the singles tournament. Federer has conducted discussions with both Stan Wawrinka and Martina Hingis regarding their Olympic plans.
