Federer says 'motivated' by 'overwhelming' fan support in China

17-time Grand Slam champion Roger Federer has said that he draws huge motivation from the fervent support he receives in China despite his recent slip of form on the men's tour.

According to Sport24, Federer expressed that it was crazy in the practice as he expected people to be there, but not hanging over the fence and holding a banner saying he believes in me.

He said that it gives him unbelievable motivation, inspires him to work hard and push further.

Federer, who is now ranked seventh in the world after a poor season by his own imperious standards, said time spent in China and his success around the world had helped him connect with the fans, the report said.

He said that the last few years had been an absolute blast on the tour, and he hoped that it continued in the same way.

The Swiss, 32, also spoke about his first few months on Twitter after holding an impromptu question and answer session on the social networking site the previous day, the report added.

He fielded questions on everything from his travel wish list to his favourite TV shows and shoe size, the report further said.