Roger Federer has committed to playing in his home-town tournament in Basel until 2019, dispelling any speculation over possible retirement. Federer, 35, has signed a three-year deal with the Swiss indoor event, which he has won seven times since making his debut in 1998.

There were serious question marks about Federer’s future when he returned in January from six months on the sidelines with knee problems. However, he defied the doubters in spectacular fashion by defeating Rafael Nadal to win his 18th major title at the Australian Open.

Federer, who will be 38 when the Swiss Indoors is played in 2019, was forced to miss the event last year and is looking forward to returning in October.

In a statement announcing the news on swisstennis.ch he said: “I cannot wait to return to my home country in the autumn. Playing in Basel is always a highlight of the year.”

Federer is scheduled to return to action at the Dubai Duty Free Championships next week.