'Without Roger Federer tennis is almost a different sport' - Mischa Zverev at French Open on legend's return

Eurosport expert Mischa Zverev has given his views on Roger Federer potentially returning to the tennis tour and shared an insight from a conversation with his coach, Ivan Ljubicic. Federer, who has won eight of his 20 Grand Slam titles at Wimbledon, is set to drop off the rankings this summer as he has been inactive for a year.

He is currently ranked at No. 47 in the world.

Ad/> While little is known about the 40-year-old's current level of fitness, he has given no indication that he is inclined to retire rather than launch a hotly-anticipated comeback when he is back to full health to compete on the court. Roland-GarrosWilander: Nadal and Djokovic would not be at this level without Federer2 HOURS AGO Zverev has provided a window into Federer's mentality with a reference to an encounter with his coach, Ljubicic, which makes it clear that the Swiss star is «more eager to return than anyone else» to ensure he has a fitting farewell from the sport.

«My mother and a friend met Federer's coach, Ivan Ljubicic, near Monaco,» Zverev told Eurosport Germany's 'Matchball' Show. «Ljubicic said that Roger is more eager to return than anyone else.

I also think he must come back because without him tennis is almost a different sport.» 'It would be amazing' — Henman urges 'icons' Federer and Serena to go out 'on big stage' 'Nobody can compare with Nadal, Federer' — Gasquet on greats of tennis Wilander: Nadal and Djokovic would not be at this level without Federer /> Speaking about Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, who was given a warm and emotional send-off into retirement after his defeat to Casper Ruud on Court Philippe Chatrier on Tuesday, Zverev was the latest to rave about the Frenchman's personality and positive impact on the sport. «I can't