Fans Greet Federer in Shanghai

Roger Federer got quite a workout in before even hitting the practice court in Shanghai.A swarm of Chinese fans greeted the 20-time Grand Slam champion at the Shanghai airport as Federer, sporting a beard, took time out to sign autographs and take selfies.Captain: Federer Influenced Zverev Decision to Skip Davis CupThe Miami Open champion will play next week's Rolex Shanghai Masters in his first Masters appearance since bowing to Andrey Rublev in Cincinnati in August.

The two-time Shanghai champion has reached the semifinals or better in three of his last four appearances at the event. Federer beat Daniil Medvedev, Roberto Bautista Agut and Kei Nishikori in succession to reach the 2018 Shanghai semifinals where he bowed to Borna Coric in straight sets. ]]>

Chris Oddo is a freelance sportswriter, podcaster, blogger and social media marker who is a lead contributor to Tennisnow.com. He also writes for USOpen.org, Rolandgarros.com, BNPParibasOpen.com, TennisTV.com, WTAtennis.com and the official US Open program.