Federer playing reduced schedule

Sang Tan / the associated press archives Raquet Roger will pick his spots from now on. (CP)

SAO PAULO, Brazil -- Roger Federer says he won't play as often in the next few years and hopes to compete in the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.

The 31-year-old Federer says he'll be more mindful about the tournaments he plays in the future to make sure he can continue playing at a high level.

"I have to make sure that I take care of my schedule, of my body, of my mind," he said on Thursday. "Hopefully I can still stay on tour for many more years and hopefully play the Olympics here in three and a half years or so, so I have to look far ahead and not just the next six months."

The winner of 17 Grand Slams is in Sao Paulo hosting exhibition matches involving Maria Sharapova, Victoria Azarenka, Serena Williams, Caroline Wozniacki, Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, Tommy Robredo, Tommy Haas and Thomaz Bellucci. The Bryan brothers, Bob and Mike, are also participating. Federer plays Bellucci, Brazil's top-ranked player, on Thursday.

The Swiss player has competed in four Olympics for a doubles gold in 2008 and singles silver this year, and he said he would love to make it to the Rio Games.

"There is a lot of passion for sports here," he said. "It's a hot place to play tennis right now."

Federer, who ended the season No. 2 in the world, said this year was especially difficult for him because he also committed to the Davis Cup and London Games, which took him away from practice and from spending time with his family.

"I've played a lot of tennis. It's been a big challenge, especially with the Olympics and the Davis Cup this year," he said. "I found my way back to world No. 1 and it took a lot of sacrifices. I'd like to be home a little bit more often and in a relaxed fashion."

Still, he said it was a rewarding season.

"I'm very happy that I'm still playing at a very high level," said Federer, who won six titles this year, including Wimbledon. "I had one of my best years on tour this year, and one of the most emotional ones, of course. Next year tournament victories will probably be more important than the rankings, that's why I need to make sure I practice a lot next year."

-- The Associated Press

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