Roger Federer overwhelmed by support in China

The Swiss ace has formed a special bond with fans in Shanghai after regular visits to the city for more than a decade.

Roger Federer celebrates a point against Andreas Seppi

"It was crazy in the practice today. I mean, I expected some people to be there, but not sort of hanging over the fence and holding up the banner ‘I believe in you'," said Federer, who beat Andreas Seppi 6-4, 6-3 yesterday.

"It was great energy. It gives me unbelievable motivation, inspires me to train hard, work hard, push further for that day, but also wanting to come back again next year, and again and again."