• Shanghai Masters

No troubles in doubles for Federer

ESPN staff
October 7, 2013
Roger Federer is looking to rediscover his touch and end the campaign on a high © Getty Images
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It is unusual to see Roger Federer playing in doubles, but given the current form of the 17-time grand slam champion, it is easy to see why he is teaming up with a partner at the Shanghai Masters.

The Swiss along with Ze Zhang have formed a wildcard pairing at this year's event, and they flew into the last-16 of the competition after beating Kevin Anderson and Dmitry Tursunov 6-2 6-1 in just 48 minutes.

Federer has only won one title in 2013 (Halle) and has been sliding in the rankings, with his place at this year's ATP World Tour Finals not certain as he finds himself down at seventh. Early losses and experiments with a new racquet have led many to believe the record major winner will call time on his career soon.

His bid to find some form and end the season on a high begins here in Shanghai, and as well as looking to rediscover his touch Federer added that playing in the doubles is an attempt to boost the profile of the sport in the country.

"That's kind of the ultimate goal, to partner up with a Chinese up and coming player and promote the game at the same time," he said. "I'm just so happy for Zhang Ze, that he played really well. I really am, because he couldn't have played any better."

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