Federer's back..but it's no good for Asian fans

Swiss ace Roger Federer is back as exhibited in his Asian Tour.

Yet, both in KL and Macau, the world No 2 has stressed there will be no fun and games for him come 2009.

This means Asian fans will not be able to catch a glimpse of their favourite player in action as Federer concentrates on giving his career a further boost and perhaps reclaim his title from current world No 1 Rafael Nadal.

Not only the region's fans are feeling the pinch, even the lack of depth of Asian players off late is a worrying trend.

The Masters Cup which was held in Shanghai two weeks ago failed to generate an overwhelming buzz as seen in European nations while tennis may reconsider China as their final location for the season end. In fact next year's season finale will be held in London instead - amidst the cold weather.

Even Federer too, while being diplomatic on the subject, believes the rise of tennis in the region can only be spurred if China could churn out a male star.

"A great player, that would surely help raise the popularity of the game here," Federer was quoted after his exhibition match in Macau.

There is urgent need to revamp and develop tennis within the region. Thailand too has seen a drought of capable players since the days of Paradon Srichapan, Danai Udomchoke and Tamarine Tanasugam.

Hopefully the region's federation, together with South America and Africa, will be able to raise the level of play in their respective regions. Otherwise, the game will once again center around the Europeans and North Americans - just as it seem to be today.