The 30-year-old icon this week starts his quest for a record equalling seventh Wimbledon men's singles crown but will be back less than a month later to play for Switzerland at the same venue.

"I'm super excited to be part of it again," said Federer (pictured above and below) who played his first Olympics in Sydney in 2000 and carried the flag at Athens 2004 and Beijing 2008 where he won a won a gold medal in doubles.

"Being part of it was like a school.

"Coming out of it, I felt like I was a changed man to some degree, seeing all the other athletes train and being part of the Olympic spirit."


Speaking on the BBC's Sportsweek programme, Federer, who will regain the number one spot if he wins Wimbledon again and equals American Pete Sampras' record, said he never imagined his distinguished career, which has netted him a record 16 grand slam titles, would include the Olympics.

"Being there, a place I never thought I would be while growing up, was something very special," Federer said.

"This one, playing the Olympics here, is going to be an incredible treat for this generation of players.

"I'm sufficiently highly ranked that I actually have a chance to do something for Switzerland which is a big deal."

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