August 08, 2008	Friday	Sha’aban 5, 1429

BEIJING, Aug 7: Roger Federer said on Thursday that he is looking forward to a special birthday here on Friday when he will carry the Swiss flag during the Olympics Games opening ceremony.

Federer, who is unquestionably his country’s major sports star, also carried the flag at the Athens Olympics four years ago.

Even in his third Games appearance, Federer is still excited and with the Beijing ceremony falling on his 27th birthday, this is set to be even more memorable.

“Athens was a great souvenir. Sydney was my first Olympics eight years ago, I had a very good event, finishing fourth and just missing out on a medal,” he said.

“Last time I got the honour of carrying the flag; it’s one of those moments you dream about to walk into the stadium with the flag and the fans on one side and the athletes on the other.

“That was one of the great moments of my career.”

Federer has a special personal affinity to the Olympics having met long-time girlfriend Mirka Vavrinec at the Sydney Games, something which he says tops even carrying his country’s flag.

“Eight years ago I met my girlfriend at the Olympics so that was a highlight but carrying the flag was also a highlight.”—AFP