Radio New Zealand - Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa

Federer to play less next year

Updated at 10:56 am on 7 December 2012

The Swiss tennis star 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.

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 Swiss world No.2 has competed in four Olympics for a doubles gold in 2008 and singles silver this year.

Federer says 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.

Federer played 21 tournaments in 2012, the most among the top four players.

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