ATP Basel to lay groundwork for full Federer return

Roger Federer intends to lay down a fitness foundation for a return to the ATP full-time as he plays his hometown event in Basel in October.

The 10-time champion – and winner of the last three editions played 2017-2019 – has been off the circuit for the past few seasons due to knee surgeries, with a few rare comeback appearances.

But the 40-year-old told Swiss newspaper group Tamedia that he will start stepping up the pace of his return by competing at the September Laver Cup in London and ATP Basel.

“After Basel, the season is over anyway. It’s important for me to get fit again so that I can train fully,” the 20-time Grand Slam champion said.

“Once I’ve done that, I can choose how many tournaments I play and where. The Laver Cup is a good start, I don’t have to play five matches in six days.”

“I will have to be able to do that (play back-to-back days) in Basel.”

“That’s why I have to prepare for it in practice. I’m curious about what’s still to come.”

He added: “I’m hopeful, I’ve come a long way. I’m not far away. The next three or four months will be extremely important.”

Main photo:- Roger Federer leaves centre court after his last appearance at Wimbledon in 2021 – by Roger Parker International Sports Fotos Ltd