2016 Australian Open: Roger Federer proud for another stint at tournament

Roger Federer said he is always proud to compete at the 2016 Australian Open, citing Melbourne’s love of the sport.

“This country, this city loves tennis,” Federer said, reports the Herald Sun. “There are unbelievable fans, tradition, everything. When you come back all the memories come back and I’m very proud to be here playing another Australian Open.”

Federer failed to start his 2016 season on a winning note after a flu-like virus contributed in his final round loss against Canada’s Milos Raonic at the Brisbane International earlier this month. But the Swiss Maestro vows to do well when the first Grand Slam event of the year starts next week, adding that he is getting over his illness.

According to ESPN, the 17-time Grand Slam winner will be the third seed at the 2016 Australian Open. Novak Djokovic, the defending champion, will be the top seed, while Andy Murray of Britain is seeded second. Stan Wawrinka will be at No. 4 followed by Rafael Nadal at No. 5.

Australian youngster Bernard Tomic earned 16^th seed at the tournament, which, according to the ABC, would do well for the 23-year-old since he cannot meet the likes of Djokovic and Federer until at least the fourth round. Tomic, who was guaranteed a top 16 seeding after semifinals run at the Brisbane International, said he is hoping to get the right draw in order to save some energy in the first few rounds and gain confidence as he moves on.

"What I've noticed in the past year or so, you need to get to those third, fourth rounds and be ready and physically fresh,” Tomic added. "To beat the top players you have to be physically ready."

Meanwhile, Serena Williams, who pulled out of the Hopman Cup exhibition because of a sore knee, got the top seed in the women’s category. Simona Halep was No. 2, while Maria Sharapova earned the eighth seed.