By Erik Gudris | Tuesday, May 13, 2014
Getting the go ahead from his wife, Roger Federer returned to this week's Italian Open after the birth of his new twin boys last week.
Photo Credit: AP
Roger Federer is missing his newborn twins but decided to compete at this week's Italian Open in Rome after getting the ok from his wife.
ATP: Djokovic Makes Winning Return in Rome
The current World No. 4 withdrew from last week's Madrid event after his wife Mirka Federer gave birth to twin boys. Though speculation grew that Federer might also skip Rome, Federer returned to the Italian capital in time to compete at the ATP 1000 event.
Speaking to press on Tuesday, Federer explained the process leading up to his decision.
"Everything happens all of sudden on Tuesday. Then I spoke to the team, I spoke to Mirka, asked all of them what they think I should do and they told me to come here and play. So I said ok, if you don’t want me around, I’ll go away! I miss them a lot already, it’s a different type of week, but I’ll get through it and I hope I can play some good tennis here," Federer said.
A three-time finalist including last year, Federer spent his off week training in Switzerland along with young Australian talent Nick Krygios. Though looking forward to playing again. Federer stressed that being back on tour was not his main priority.
"To be honest being back on the tour is the least important thing," Federer said. "I couldn’t be happier…for those who have kids it’s the best thing…they know what I am talking about. It’s hard to leave all the family, but I’ll see them soon, shortly. The boys are healthy and Mirka is good too. It’s a great time in our lives."
Federer said at some point he hopes to travel with his wife and all four of his children while on tour, though he wasn't sure when that would happen.
Federer is scheduled to play his second round match against France's Jeremy Chardy later in the week.
(Source: Italian Open)