Federer Organizes Charity Event for Haiti Victims; Finally Speaks On Tiger

The always charitable Roger Federer will forgo his final day of preparation before the Australian Open to participate in a fundraiser raising money for the surviving victims of the devastating earthquake in Haiti. The world's top player rallied other big-name stars such as Serena Williams, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, Kim Clijsters and Sam Stosur to star in the event with him. There will be a mixed-doubles event starting at 2pm on Sunday (11pm Sat. Night ET) which he hopes "fills the stadium" and the Swiss said he will choose his partner "wisely".

Here is Fed's comment on the fundraiser at a press conference in Melbourne Park:

I had the idea that we could do something, you know, to help Haiti after the tragic earthquake. So I spoke to some other top players. I got some connections, you know (smiling). They all said, Yes, we should do something.

So we’re going to play doubles or mixed doubles tomorrow, also with top women’s players, try to fill the stadium. This is where you guys can help. Maybe put it out in the press. I think there will be a donation at the door of $10 to come and see us play.

I think it’s something as a tennis family we’re very happy to do. I know it’s on the eve of the first Grand Slam of the season, so it’s for some not so easy maybe mentally to separate, you know, a few things. But I think it’s a great initiative.

Happy we can go through it, have some fun tomorrow. Maybe nice day also for families to come and see some top players play.

Oh, and Roger finally made a comment on his buddy, Tiger Woods', scandal:

Q: Have you spoken to Tiger Woods since his problems were revealed?

Federer: Yes, he is my friend and I told him I was there to support him. It’s really tough for him and his family to see their intimate problems flaunted everywhere.