Roger Federer Is Back On The Clay!

by Tom Gainey | May 3rd, 2019, 7:26 pm
  • 5 Comments

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.


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5 Comments for Roger Federer Is Back On The Clay!

Madmax Says:

Awesome news!

Good luck Roger. Like you say, no pressure, just from the fans!

Take it to the limit!


fred stone Says:

Draw is out:

https://www.atptour.com/en/scores/current/madrid/1536/draws

Another cakewalk draw?
Fed is in Djoker’s half, with Thiem in quarters.

Mr. Clay gets Shapo or fellow Canuck Felix in his first match. Very interesting…


Daniel Says:

Draw totally favors Nadal: Djoko, Fed, DelPo, Thiem, Fognini and even Kyrgios all on other side. He got Zverev potential semis who may not even win 1 match with his current form, maybe Kei in QF or Wawa if they both reach there. His most dangerous match is Shapovalov round 2, after that a virtual bye to finals where most likely, Djoko, Thiem or Fed. I am cheering for Thiem with 2 Madrid finals losses back to back last 2 years, about time he gets this title.


skeezer Says:

Draw is pretty much loaded(except for the Bull, but of course). Hope the ball retrievers bring it.


jatin Says:

WOW, So excited to see him play on clay again.
With his new technique on his backhand side and no wrist injury, He may very well go deep in here.
Such a treat for us :)

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