Canadian Open: Roger Federer launches hard-court campaign in Montreal as he begins World No 1 charge

Montreal: World No 3 Roger Federer, who captured his record 19th Grand Slam singles crown last month at Wimbledon, said Tuesday he will play in next week’s ATP event at Montreal. The Rogers Cup event marks the 35-year-old Swiss star’s first tuneup event for the US Open, which starts 28 August, and will be his first visit to Montreal since 2011. [caption id=“attachment_3584735” align=“alignleft” width=“380”] File image of Roger Federer. Reuters[/caption] The Canadian hard court event alternates between Montreal and Toronto with a WTA event every year. “I’m happy to be coming back to Montreal, as I have not had the chance to play there for many years,” Federer said. “This 2017 season has been very exciting and I am really looking forward to being back on the court.” Federer captured the Australian Open for the fifth time in his career, then won his eighth Wimbledon title. Federer also took titles at Indian Wells, Miami and Halle. It also means Federer will celebrate his 36th birthday next Tuesday in Montreal. “We are celebrating today and the celebrations will continue over the next few days, especially since Federer will celebrate his birthday with us on August 8,” said tournament director Eugene Lapierre. “I’m certain the Montreal fans will give him the welcome he deserves.” Federer seeks his third crown in the Canadian event but the first in Montreal after 2004 and 2006 triumphs in Toronto.