Roger Federer is hoping to make a successful return to the ATP Tour during 2017, as he sets his sights on winning more Grand Slam titles in the future.

The 17-time major winner has been sidelined with a knee injury since losing to Milos Raonic in the semi-finals of Wimbledon in July and he has subsequently slipped to ninth in the world rankings.

The 35-year-old has not won a major title since his success at the All England Club in 2012, but he is convinced that he can still compete for Grand Slam titles, as he bids to return to competitive action for the start of 2017.

He said: “The goal is to be as stronger as ever in December before coming back better than what people expect. My dream is to keep winning Grand Slam events and comeback at the top of the rankings.”

Federer admits he is unsure how long he will be able to keep playing at the top level, but he remains hopeful that he can enjoy an injury-free season during the upcoming campaign.

He continued: “When they ask me if I will play in 2018, I reply that I hope it’s the case, but first of all I have to play five tournaments in a row and without physical issues.”

The first major of 2017 will be the Australian Open in January and Federer is available at 15.00 to secure his fifth success at Melbourne Park.