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TENNIS

Federer: I can't wait for retirement

There is plenty of life left in Roger Federer, but the 20-time grand slam champion says he is "in a way" looking forward to retirement
Ryder Cup 2018 final day: Europe vs USA, Sunday singles

Update:
Federer: I can't wait for retirement
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Roger Federer has just completed a remarkable return to world number one, but the Swiss maestro says he "can't wait" to retire.

Federer became oldest ever number one on Monday

On Monday, Federer officially became the oldest player to reach the summit of the men's game at 36 having won last week's Rotterdam Open, although his run to the semi-finals would have been enough to secure top spot anyway.

It capped what has been a stunning resurgence, with Federer having won three of the past five grand slams to take his record tally for a male player to 20.

"I won't get bored I don't think"

Federer concedes that he has no immediate plans to step away from tennis, but is looking forward to the next period of his life when he can spend more time with his family.

Speaking to CNN, he said: "In a way I can't wait for it [retirement] but it should wait for the moment.

"Times are great right now as a tennis player and these are great moments. After that I am happy, I have a great group of friends around me.

"I always know I'll be fine once I retire and I'm home. I won't get bored I don't think."

Federer's new era of dominance over the past 14 months is even more impressive considering he missed the back end of 2016 due to a knee injury.

Got taste of what retirement will be like during period out

And he says that break gave him an insight as to what life will be like after tennis.

"I got a little glimpse into it when I was out for six to eight months in 2016 and I actually enjoyed it a lot," he added.

"Not having a schedule, being home for longer and of course doing work for my foundation.

"That is also where I am going to go very soon. On 5 March I will go to San Jose for the Roger Federer Foundation.

"That is something I was to spend more time on. I also want to spend more time in Switzerland and help my kids grow up and be in a more normal environment."