Roger Federer reinforced his strong hometown ties to the Swiss Indoors tournament with the world number 3 confirming that he expects to play at the event again from October 21.
The presence of the celebrated five-time champion had been in doubt since last autumn’s edition, when Federer’s lucrative appearance contract ran out.
Speculation suggested that he and director Roger Brennwald could not come to an arrangement and that the home hero might actually miss the event, where he got his start in the game as a ball boy nearly two decades ago.
Federer on Wednesday confirmed to Zurich’s Tages Anzeiger newspaper that an arrangement had been reached, though he refused to go into details.
“I will play the Swiss Indoors,” said the world 31-year-old.
“I’ve experienced many memorable moments in this unique atmosphere with the great fans, and I am pleased extremely to be able to experience this year. I can play in Basel also no contracts or arrangements, if I feel like it, and I did.”
“To compete on home soil is very special for me because I’m on the road all year. I do not want to miss this chance.”