Federer alludes to Rome return after birth of twin sons

ROME -- Roger Federer has alluded to a return at the Italian Open following a week off to welcome the birth of his second set of twins.

The 17-time Grand Slam champion tweeted Monday, ''ciao tutti, I just arrived in bella Italia! Looking forward to Rome.''

Federer's first opponent at the Foro Italico is slated to be 47th-ranked Jeremy Chardy.

Federer and wife Mirka were already parents to twin daughters when they announced the birth of twin boys, Leo and Lenny, six days ago - prompting him to withdraw from the Madrid Open.

Rome is one of only three Masters titles that Federer hasn't won, and it's the last key clay-court warmup for the French Open, which starts in two weeks.

Federer reached the Rome final for the third time last year.