My wife is extremely competitive, says Federer

Bern: Swiss tennis legend Roger Federer has said his wife is a competitive individual who fights for every point even in friendly knock-ups against him during holidays.

Federer's wife Mirka played the game professionally, attaining a career-high singles ranking of World No.76 in 2002, but was forced to retire in 2002 due to a persistent foot injury.

She met the 17-time Grand Slam champion during the 2000 Olympics and married him in 2009.

Since the blossoming of their relationship, Mirka has been a constant member of Federer's entourage on the tennis circuit, attending his matches.

Federer said his wife's tennis was rhythmical and he finds it difficult to counter, especially when on holidays when he is in a relaxed mood.

"Well, she plays a very rhythmical game and me ... well, me not so much," Federer was quoted as saying by the Herald Sun Thursday.

"So, I avoid playing tennis too much on holidays because you don't want that kind of competition when we are relaxing!"

The couple has four children - two pairs of identical twin girls and also identical boys.