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<\/p>\nRoger Federer is back in Vancouver for the Laver Cup this week and the all-time great has already identified one player that he is hoping can excel on home turf this year. Federer is back in Canada to mark the 12-month anniversary of his retirement from tennis, which was officially confirmed after last year’s event.<\/p>\n
The 20-time Grand Slam champion might not be competing on the court this year, but he will be keeping a close eye on Felix Auger-Aliassime.<\/p>\n
The Canadian played a key role in last year’s Laver Cup, helping Team World to clinch their maiden triumph in the competition by defeating Novak Djokovic in straight sets. The 23-year-old also triumphed against doubles partners Matteo Berretini and Andy Murray alongside teammate Jack Sock, to complete a successful tournament.<\/p>\n
But Auger-Aliassime has endured a difficult 2023 season and was dumped out of the US Open in the first round by Mackenzie McDonald late last month. The early exit replicates his departures from both the French Open and Wimbledon in the summer, leaving him with an unsatisfactory 14\/15 win\/loss record for the season so far.<\/p>\n
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Federer met up with Auger-Aliassime at the Rogers Arena in Vancouver on Tuesday and the Swiss legend has revealed that he is a “big fan” of the Canadian’s game and hopes to witness an up-turn in his fortunes this week.<\/p>\n
As per sportskeeda, Federer said: “I\u2019m a big fan of his game, I always wish him the best. I hope that the Laver Cup can be again a turnaround for him.”<\/p>\n
The 42-year-old’s positive outlook was replicated by Auger-Aliassime himself, with the world No. 14 hoping to land his second consecutive Laver Cup title.<\/p>\n
“I just got to Vancouver. I’m happy to take part in this year’s Laver Cup again for Team World. Let’s go back to back. Come on!” he said.<\/p>\n
Don’t miss… <\/strong> We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info<\/p>\n Federer will take to the court on Friday to commemorate the one-year anniversary of his retirement in a special ceremony. He will be interviewed on court by former world No. 1 Jim Courier and will do the coin toss for the final match of the day.<\/p>\n Federer said: “Being live in a stadium honestly has a different feel, and tennis is a great live sport so I\u2019m really happy to be back here in Vancouver and seeing some live tennis again.<\/p>\n “Vancouver\u2019s going to be a great host just because it\u2019s a great sports city. Tennis is not here very much, so having the best players in the world come to Vancouver, people are going to be excited.”<\/p>\n
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