Roger Federer has revealed his secrets behind the longevity throughout his professional tennis career to date.

The evergreen 36-year-old Swiss played some of the best tennis of his career in the 2017 season, and he will be aiming to continue the momentum that brought him two Grand Slams heading into the New Year.

Federer claimed both the Australian Open and Wimbledon Grand Slam titles last year, and he also finished 2017 as number two in the world, only behind long-term rival Rafael Nadal.

Having struggled with a persistent knee injury, which derailed his 2016 season, Federer is arguably in the form of his life in the autumn of his career.

And, as he builds-up to defend his Australian Open crown in Melbourne later this month, Federer has revealed adapting his training routine over the past 12 months has worked wonders for his form. 

"Through the injury I sustained here in Australia a couple of years ago, my mindset has changed," Federer said.

"I probably work less, with even more quality. So it gives me more time off.

"Essentially I'm working half days if you like, because there's no point for me to put in all the mega hours anymore, because I know I have it in the vault, I have it there if need be.

"I won all the big matches when it came down to the crunch. I know I can do it, and it's important to stay injury free."

Federer has been in action already as the tennis season returns for its new campaign. 

He has been representing Switzerland at the Hopman Cup in Perth, beating Yuichi Sugita before partnering Belinda Bencic as his nation dispatched Japan.

All eyes will be on Federer this month as he looks to defend his Australian Open title, and with Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray, and Nadal all carrying injuries, it could be another perfect start to the year for the Swiss superstar.