JOHANNESBURG (AP) — It's a long way from Centre Court at Wimbledon for Roger Federer, who has opened a preschool in impoverished Malawi as part of his charity work.

Federer said in an interview with The Associated Press on Monday that he traveled to the southern African nation to see firsthand the impact of funds from his foundation, which contributes to education programs in the region.

Federer, who lost in the Wimbledon final to Novak Djokovic, says charity work is an emotional experience and he compares it to "meeting a friend you haven't seen for 20 years."

The world No. 2 says he plans to start training again soon ahead of the American summer season of tournaments leading to the U.S. Open. He spoke at an airport hotel in Johannesburg.