MADRID, April 29, 2016
Roger Federer will return to the 15th edition of the Mutua Madrid Open next week. The former world number one has lifted the trophy three times in the Spanish capital.
First in 2006, when he overcame Chilean player Fernando González (7-5, 6-1, 6-0), then in 2009, beating Rafael Nadal (6-4, 6-4) and finally in 2012, the year when he defeated Tomas Berdych (3-6, 7-5, 7-5).
Tournament director Manolo Santana was excited about the Swiss player’s announcement.
“Federer is one of the best players in history and Madrid is a special place for him. We are delighted to have him back in the Caja Mágica. In addition, he is one of the fans’ favourites because of everything he has achieved in his career. We will be welcoming him with open arms”.
Feliciano López, Andy Murray and Petra Kvitova
(photo: A. Martinez/MMO)
On Thursday, the official presentation of the ATP/WTA combined event was held in the Thyssen museum. Manolo Santana, Lorenzo Cooklin, CEO of Mutua Madrileña foundation and Yolanda García, manager director of the sports newsroom of TVE, have attended to the event alongside the players Feliciano López, Andy Murray and Petra Kvitova.
The women will kick-off the tournament’s on-court action on Friday. World number one Serena Williams, however, will not taking part in this year’s event. The 34-year-old US-American withdrew on Friday morning with illness.
“Unfortunately I am suffering from fever and will be not able to play, as I am not at 100 per cent. I hope that I will be back soon,” Williams stated.
