Roger Federer locked in political debate in native Switzerland

Supporters have started a petition to try and get the Swiss Indoors centre court renamed after Federer.

The petition needs 3000 signatures to be taken before local politicians.

Twice before fans in Switzerland have attempted to have the St. Jakobshalle renamed the Roger Federer Arena but it was blocked by MPs on both occasions.

And the world No 5 has opened up on the possibility of having his name live on in his home city.

“I would be very happy,” Federer told Swiss newspaper Tages Anzeiger.

“It would be an absolute, incredible honour for me.

“I see what Rod Laver or Roy Emerson means when you have a stadium named after you and you can experience it.”

Federer refused to discuss the previous petitions being knocked back by the authorities.

But he has been contacted by the competition organisers and given his consent.

“They asked me if I was against this petition,” Federer added.

“I said, no, I would be glad if it happened.

“But I also understand if it does not work. That’s what other people should decide, not me.

“That’s why I have not commented yet. That should just go his way.

“But it would be extremely honourable.”

Federer is battling for the Miami Open title this week and he faces Daniil Medvedev in the fourth round tonight.