Federer to prepare for Australian Open at Kooyong again

Oct 2, 2008, 7:58 GMT

Melbourne - Roger Federer will begin the bid for a record-equalling 14th Grand Slam title at the Australian Open next January as he plays the AAMI Classic warm-up event.

Officials on Thursday announced another all-star lineup for the January 14-17 eight-man special event, considered the top preparation prior to the start of the major.

Federer missed the tournament at Kooying club last year as he was struck down with glandular fever, recovering enough to reach the Australian semi-finals and a loss against Novak Djokovic.

But the Swiss ranked second in the world behind Rafael Nadal should be fully fit for his key title try in Melbourne. A victory at Melbourne Park would pull him level on the all-time best of 14 held by Pete Sampras.

Federer will be joined by first-time entrant and Davis Cup teammate Stan Wawrinka, who won the Beijing doubles gold medal alongside his friend.

Also new to the field is American James Blake, playing in the absence of Kooyong regular Andy Roddick. Returning to the field will be Chile's Fernando Gonzalez and popular Russian Marat Safin.

The lineup also includes 2006 Australian Open finalist Marcos Baghdatis, with young Latvian Ernests Gulbis playing for the first time. One last spot is being held open by tournament director Colin Stubs.