Federer accepts wild card for Monte Carlo Masters

Monaco:

Roger Federer accepted a last-minute wild card invitation on Thursday and will play in next week's Monte Carlo Masters.

"We never gave up hope that he would be present even this year," tournament director Zeljko Franulovic said. "Events proved us right and we are very proud."

The second-ranked Federer is a three-time finalist at the clay-court tournament but has never won. Last year, top-ranked Rafael Nadal beat Federer 7-5, 7-5 in the final.

Nadal will be going for his fifth straight title at this year's tournament in Monaco, which will include nine of the world's top 10 players. Only sixth-ranked Andy Roddick will miss the event.