MELBOURNE, Jan 19, 2009 (AFP) – Andy Roddick has been an interested observer as neighbour Lance Armstrong launches his comeback, and says he is not surprised by the media furore surrounding the seven-time Tour de France winner.

Roddick, who lives near Armstrong in Texas, has watched as the “icon” drew 130,000 fans and blanket press coverage to this week’s Tour Down Under in Adelaide, which coincides with the Australian Open Grand Slam.

“I live about two miles from Lance in Austin. But, no, I’m not really surprised,” he said, when asked about the attention surrounding Armstrong.

“I mean, he’s an icon pretty much wherever he goes. In the States, he wears so many hats from athlete to the political side of cancer research and fund-raising. He wears so many hats that I’m not really too surprised by it.

“Obviously … this is his first comeback race, so I think that probably adds a little drama to it.”

Armstrong, who survived cancer before claiming a record seven Tour de France wins, tackles the first stage of the Australian race on Tuesday in his first event since retiring in 2005.

Armstrong has also been the spotlight over doping allegations, which he has strenuously denied.

Roddick will hope the cyclist can find time to watch him play here like Dave Matthews Band musician Boyd Tinsley, who cheers him on at the US Open.

“Boyd is a friend now. I’ve been obsessed with their band since I was 11 years old. I don’t know if that ever becomes really normal. But I still kind of geek out at it sometimes,” Roddick said.