Roger Federer is set to meet Wellington cancer survivor Haley Plumb on January next year, when the Swiss Maestro opens up his 2016 season at the Brisbane International Open in Australia.

Plumb, a 17-year-old teen who spent months to undergoing draining treatment for thyroid cancer will get a chance to meet Federer, her favourite tennis player. The 17-time Grand Slam winner will meet for the first time a Kiwi Make-A-Wish recipient when he defends his 2015 title at the Brisbane International in January.

"I'm going to shake the hand that he hits the tennis racquet with," Plumb said, reports Stuff. "Not many people can say that."

Plumb, who also plays for the Avalon Tennis Club in Lower Hutt, hopes to get tips and tricks from Federer, including the Swiss’ signature “tweener” between-the-legs shot. Plumb said he admires Federer because of the 34-year-old’s off-court charisma and fluid style of play.

Meanwhile, Federer, who has announced his tentative 2016 schedule on Twitter, said he only plans to play one tournament on clay at the French Open next year. Federer said he will stay out of Tour for two months, skipping tournaments between the Indian Wells and the French Open.

However, despite playing only 16 to 20 tournaments next season, Federer vowed he is taking his preparation very seriously and will try to “always win” every competition.

“I only play between 16 and 20 (tournaments), so in my case every tournament counts,” Federer said, reports Tennis World USA. “Of course, I want to peak at certain times, but I don't see particular events as warm-ups for other events. I play every event trying to always win.”

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