Roger Federer Is Back On The Clay!

Roger Federer made his long-awaited to return to the clay today in Madrid, though it was just practice.

The Swiss was at the Caja Magica where he hit with Dutchman Robin Haase.

Federer last played on the clay in three years ago losing to Dominic Thiem in the Rome third round.

Federer, who grew up on clay and once lost his first 11 matches on this surface on the tour, discussed his return with the New York Times.

“I feel now I can play pressure free, because what is there to lose? Nothing really,” Federer told the paper. “I haven’t played on clay for three years so maybe for the first time in 15 years I can go to the French and be like, ‘Let’s just see what happens.’ And maybe that’s exactly what is going to make a beautiful result. And if it’s not, no problem. Then I have more time for the grass, and I still profited from a great buildup, and it made me strong physically, and it’s good for my game.”

In the story, Federer trained for a week with Dan Evans at a Swiss club in altitude in the Alps which allowed him to better acclimate to the Madrid altitude. We’ll see how it goes for Roger when the draw is released tomorrow and he plays his first match Tuesday or Wednesday.

LOOK. WHO's. BACK. 😍 #MMOPEN

🇨🇭 @rogerfederer's in Madrid! We've really missed you Roger! 🤗

— Mutua Madrid Open (@MutuaMadridOpen) May 3, 2019

The Madrid clay is at your feet @rogerfederer #MMOPEN

— Mutua Madrid Open (@MutuaMadridOpen) May 3, 2019

Perfection 👌🏼 @rogerfederer #MMOPEN pic.twitter.com/5jYMMfbnFo

— Mutua Madrid Open (@MutuaMadridOpen) May 3, 2019

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