Roger Federer Withdraws From Olympics, Reveals “Setback” With Knee
- 15 Comments
Roger Federer officially withdrew from the Olympics, the 20-time Grand Slam champion announced today. While it doesn’t come as a huge shock that he opted not to play, it was a surprise to hear his reason.
Federer revealed he suffered a “setback” with his surgically repaired knee during Wimbledon. Because of that, he would need additional time for rehab with an aim to return to play later this summer.
“During the grass court season, I unfortunately experienced a setback with my knee, and have accepted that I must withdraw from the Tokyo Olympic Games,” Federer posted on Instagram. “I am greatly disappointed, as it has been an honor and highlight of my career each time I have represented Switzerland. I have already begun rehabilitation in the hopes of returning to the tour later this summer. I wish the entire Swiss team the best of luck and I will be rooting hard from afar. As always, Hopp Schwiz! 🇨🇭 🏅 🇯🇵”
In his last match, there was a moment in the second set tiebreaker against Hubert Hurkacz where it appeared he may have done something to the knee. He then lost the third in a bagel, his first ever at Wimbledon.
Federer, who turns 40 next month, won the gold medal in doubles at the Olympics with Stan Wawrinka in 2008 at Beijing.
With the COVID restrictions in Tokyo, lack of fans, positioning in the calendar and the travel limitations, several players have opted out of playing.
Among the Top 10, as of now Novak Djokovic, Daniil Medvedev, Stefanos Tsitsipas, Alexander Zverev, Andrey Rublev and Matteo Berrettini are still scheduled. But Djokovic has said he’s 50/50 on playing.
“Right now,” Djokovic said Sunday. “My plan was always to go to Olympic Games. But right now I’m a little bit divided. It’s kind of 50/50 because of what I heard in the last couple days.”
The games begin on July 24.
You Might Like:
Roger Federer Reveals He Didn’t Miss Tennis While He Was Recovering From Knee Surgery
Un-Fit Rafael Nadal Withdraws From Toronto
Sick Serena Williams Withdraws From Doha, Is This Another Grand Slam Hangover?
Stan Wawrinka Withdraws From Rotterdam Due To A Knee Injury
Li Na Withdraws From Summer Events Including US Open Due To Knee