“I’m absolutely delighted to be able to play with Roger in mixed doubles and represent my country at the Hopman Cup”, said 19-year-old Bencic, now ranked 16 in the world. The Swiss superstar had won the mixed-team event in 2001 when he joined forces with compatriot Martina Hingis to lift the trophy. 15 years down the line, Federer will partner 19-year-old Belinda Bencic when the tournament begins from January 1 at Perth Arena.
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“We are thrilled that Roger Federer has chosen to start his 2017 season here in Perth”, Acting Premier and Tourism Minister Liza Harvey said. I’m very happy it’s happening right now and I can’t wait to come back.
“I was watching on the television the Hopman Cup when Nick (Kyrgios) was playing and (Andy) Murray was playing and I just thought it would be cool to be a part of that”, he said. “I thought on TV it looked great, the atmosphere seemed really nice, the stadium looked fantastic so I’m looking forward to playing in that environment”. The world No. 3 played in Brisbane three times, winning the title in 2015 and finishing second in 2014 and 2016.
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The 34-year-old was knocked out at the semi-finals of both Wimbledon and the Australian Open this year, and he was twice beaten in grand slam finals by Novak Djokovic in 2015. “The city has truly come of age, and the visitation and global attention that the Hopman Cup generates will showcase this transformation”, Ms Harvey said.
