Roger Federer's astonishing feat to make tennis history

Roger Federer this week celebrated the 15th anniversary of the day he first became world No.1.

And even though there are a number of reasons why some are speculating 2019 could be his last year on the circuit, the Swiss great isn’t done yet.

In fact, he’s about to become the first male player to play a match a full 15 years after his maiden stint as the top-ranked player.

Since the ATP established the rankings system in 1973 only one man has come close – Lleyton Hewitt.

The Australian first became No.1 in November 2001 and would spend a year and five months at the top before being usurped by Andre Agassi.

Just 20 years old at the time of his rise, Hewitt overcame numerous injuries and surgeries to remain on the tour until a farewell appearance at the 2016 Australian Open.

But after retiring from singles following that tournament the two-time major winner fell 10 months short of the 15-year milestone.

Federer, meanwhile, hit top spot aged 22 in February 2004 after taking out his first Australian Open title (and second major overall after Wimbledon 2003).

Eighteen titles and more than 300 weeks as world No.1 later, the 37-year-old will officially pass the 15-year mark when he suits up in Dubai later this month.

In doing so Federer will join three women who made longevity a hallmark of their careers.

Martina Navratilova first retired 16 years and four months after reaching the summit then returned 10 years later for a short-lived comeback.

The remaining two: Venus and Serena Williams, who first reached the No.1 spot within months of each other in 2002.

Is 2019 a farewell tour for Federer?

The 20-time major winner will make a surprise return to the French Open this year after a four-year absence, a decision curiously announced after his Australian Open exit.

The 2009 Roland Garros champion withdrew from the 2016 tournament and opted to stay off clay in 2017 and 2018.

“It’s a bit of a desire. I’m in a phase where I want to have fun and I’ve missed not doing it,” Federer said last month.

“I don’t feel it is necessary to have a big break again.”

The comments sparked fears that he wouldn’t be seen at Melbourne Park again after his bid for a hat-trick of titles was ended by Stefanos Tsitsipas.

While Federer is yet to address his long-term future with clarity, it is far from certain he will return at age 38 to make a record 21st Australian Open appearance – even with the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo on the horizon.