After a prolonged wait, Swiss Maestro Roger Federer is finally set to make his comeback on the tour at the Swiss Indoors later this year. The Swiss master last played at the 2021 Wimbledon, where he suffered a quarterfinal loss to Hubert Hurkacz. Following the loss, he underwent a third surgery on his knee, which forced him to take a break from the tour.

Recently, the former World No. 1 has posted a couple of training videos preparing fans for his comeback. Even though the world is in doubt whether he will be able to achieve the optimum form upon his return, his longtime rival and good friend Tommy Haas thinks otherwise.

The rivalry between Federer and Haas was one of the most anticipated ones in the 2000s. In a span of over a decade, the two played each other 17 times, with Federer outplaying the German on a majority of occasions. However, despite being arch rivals on-court, the two share a strong friendship off the court.

Tommy Haas confident of a strong return for Roger Federer

Talking to the media on a number of occasions, both the players have been vocal about the special bond they share. Recently, while talking to a leading publication, Haas gave his views on the much-awaited return of his friend.

Haas announced his retirement from tennis in 2018. However, he believes that the return of his 40-year-old friend will be a strong one and not just a PR appearance.

“Roger seriously believes in his comeback and is fighting hard for it. He wants to know it again and not just deliver a PR appearance. I would never write Roger off.” Maybe he won’t necessarily win another Grand Slam. “But he can always get into the quarter-finals or semi-finals – if he’s healthy.”

Also read- ‘He Can Hurt if You Give Him Time’ – Novak Djokovic on Playing Against Stan Wawrinka at Italian Open 2022

Roger Federer is all set to make an appearance at the Laver Cup in September, where he will possibly be teaming up with Rafael Nadal. Later, the Swiss star will feel the warmth of his home fans as he enters the Swiss Indoors event in search of an eleventh title.

Watch this story- Hilarious episodes of Novak Djokovic’s career