Roger Federer calls the city his second home and the man fondly known as ‘Cow’ in China had his fans in a froth on his return to the Shanghai Masters.Ê Already hugely popular in China because of his easygoing personality and outstanding success, the Swiss legend had the crowd swooning once more following his victory on 11 October. Federer’s ‘Cow’ moniker stems from a Swiss tournament twice gifting him one of the animals. The first was Juliette in 2003, and then there was Desiree in 2013. The Chinese also consider his personality — they see him as gentle and mellow — to be similar to that of a cow. Shanghai has fond memories for Federer, who played here in 2002 when he first broke into the top ten. He also won the 2006 and 2007 Tennis Masters Cups and the 2014 Masters at the Qi Zhong Stadium. 11 October was Federer’s first match in the Chinese metropolis since 2015, and his supporters were determined to give him the warmest of welcomes.