Federer changes US Open prep in shot at No.1 ranking

World No.3 Roger Federer, who captured his record 19th Grand Slam singles crown last month at Wimbledon, says he will play in next week's ATP event at Montreal.

The Rogers Cup event marks the 35-year-old Swiss star's first tuneup event for the US Open, which starts August 28, and will be his first visit to Montreal since 2011.

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The Canadian hardcourt event alternates between Montreal and Toronto with a WTA event every year.

"I'm happy to be coming back to Montreal, as I have not had the chance to play there for many years," Federer said.

"This 2017 season has been very exciting and I am really looking forward to being back on the court."

Federer was expected to skip the Canadian event, but the change of heart means the Swiss great now has a massive chance to capture the World No.1 ranking before the US Open.

As we head into the American hard court season, World No.2 Rafael Nadal (7465) trails No.1 Andy Murray (7750) by only 285 points and leads Federer (6545) by 920 points.

But Federer can gain the No.1 ranking before the US Open if he makes deep runs in Montreal and Cincinnati (and if Murray and Nadal are ousted early).

Federer captured the Australian Open for the fifth time in his career, then won his eighth Wimbledon title. Federer also took titles at Indian Wells, Miami and Halle.

Federer will celebrate his 36th birthday next Tuesday in Montreal.

"We are celebrating today and the celebrations will continue over the next few days, especially since Federer will celebrate his birthday with us on August 8," said tournament director Eugene Lapierre. "I'm certain the Montreal fans will give him the welcome he deserves."

Federer seeks his third crown in the Canadian event but the first in Montreal after 2004 and 2006 triumphs in Toronto.