'Like a new start': Federer battles to victory on Stuttgart return

Roger Federer was made to battle after a losing first set as the Swiss star made his long-awaited return to tennis today with a 3-6, 6-4, 6-2 defeat of Mischa Zverev at the Stuttgart Cup.

The world number two shook off the rust against his German opponent after a poor start, breaking twice in the second and third sets to earn victory in 93 minutes.

The 20-time Grand Slam winner, who exited in his opening match at the grass court season curtain-raiser a year ago to friend Tommy Haas, can displace Rafael Nadal from the world's top ranking spot if he reaches Sunday's final.

The 36-year-old finished to the cheers of a sold-out centre court on a chilly day. "I'm happy to have won a match after losing my last two (Indian Wells, Miami in March)," Federer said.

"This is a new start. I'm glad to have been able to win again, overcoming some difficult moments after being a set down. Mischa's level dropped in the last two sets and that gave me a chance to win.

"It feels a lot like home here, since it's only two hours of driving from Basel. It's a great place, but I'm hoping for some sun this week."