SYDNEY - Swiss champion Roger Federer will begin his 2014 season at Australia's Brisbane International for the first time, tournament organisers said Wednesday, in a bid to improve his Grand Slam hopes. Federer, a 17-time major winner, has slumped to world number five in the rankings for the first time in a decade during a disappointing season and said he would kick off 2014 at Brisbane ahead of the Australian Open.
"I've always hoped that I could come there (to Brisbane), so I am happy we are all able to make it work," he said. "I'm not just coming there for the Australian Open, especially when I commit so early in advance, it's also to win in Brisbane." Andy Murray is the defending champion. Federer, 31, is the first player to be announced for the December 29-January 5 hardcourt tournament, and director Cameron Pearson said it was a coup.
"Roger Federer is a global superstar and arguably the most accomplished tennis player in history. His attendance at this event will be a legacy for future generations," Pearson said. Federer is hoping to reverse his 2013 fortunes at this week's claycourt Swiss Open after losing to world number 114, Argentine Federico Delbonis, during the semi-finals in Hamburg, a month after being knocked out of Wimbledon in the second round.