WATCH: Roger Federer’s Preparation for His Comeback Event at ATP Qatar Open 2021

Roger Federer is back and ready to play his first tennis tournament since the Australian Open 2020. It has been 13 months since he played, and now he back practicing on the courts of the ATP 250 event Qatar Open.

Federer is in Doha, Qatar to take part in Qatar ExxonMobil Open 2021. He is a three-time champ in Qatar and has been practicing there with his coach Ivan Ljubicic for the past few days.

In the below video, Federer is seen practicing some match drills. He was working on his service returns and tried a few passing shots.

Furthermore, Federer is looking at an all-round practice. He has been practicing on his serve and backhand extensively. The Swiss Master wants to remove all rustiness from his game. He has not left his strong strokes like forehand and volleying as well.

Qatar Open 2021 draw: What it means for Roger Federer?

The draw for Qatar Open 2021 was released yesterday, and Federer relatively received an easy draw. With a first-round bye, he could play Jeremy Chardy or Dan Evans in the second round. His side of the draw has Borna Coric and Denis Shapovalov, but other than them it should be smooth sailing into the final.

In a recent video on his social media accounts, Federer spoke about playing again after a long break. Before flying to Doha, Federer was brimming with confidence and positivity.

“It’s been a year since my last travel to any event, and I’m very excited. This is the moment where I could maybe thank all the people involved who made this possible. It’s been a long and hard road. I know I’m not at the finish line yet, but it’s good. I feel like I’m in a good place, I’ve been practising very well,” Federer said.

Read More: Roger Federer Opens Up on the Best Moment of His Career

Federer is the second seed in Doha. World No.4 Dominic Thiem is the first seed and might be a close favorite for the title with Federer.

Will Roger Federer make a successful return at Qatar Open?