Roger Federer won his first Wimbledon title in 2003 at the age of 21. Since then, the ‘Swiss Maestro’ has lifted the Wimbledon Trophy a further seven times. However, he hasn’t played competitively since his Wimbledon quarterfinal loss to Hubert Hurkacz in July 2021.
Embed from Getty ImagesRoger announced in February that he will be teaming up with his rival and close friend Rafael Nadal at the Laver Cup later this year. In an Instagram post, Nadal stated he was “Super happy to be coming to London for the Laver Cup. It is always great to play tennis in front of all my British fans, with Team Europe and teaming up with my friend”. The Laver Cup kicks off in September and although Feds will be playing, there are 3 Grand Slams before then that he may attend.
Embed from Getty ImagesWith Ash Barty recently announcing her retirement from professional tennis, fans around the world may be wondering how many injuries can the ‘GOAT’ sustain before it leaves him unable to compete in Grand Slams anymore. The 20 time Grand Slam champion stated “my life is not going to fall apart if I don’t play another Grand Slam final. But that would be the ultimate dream”. This shows that Roger wants to return to major tournaments such as Wimbledon but must prioritise his health first and return to the court when he feels ready.
He added: “I also wish I could say goodbye in my own way and on a tennis court. That’s why I give my all in my rehabilitation”. A 2022 comeback would allow Roger to say goodbye to his dedicated fans if he decides to retire at the end of the season.
Embed from Getty ImagesFederer: “I want to try”
The Swiss tennis star who turns 41 in August has been absent from professional tennis since August 2021 after undergoing surgery to treat a recurring knee injury. Deciding to address the injury meant that he had to pull out of the US Open and Australian Open. As a 40-year-old with multiple injuries, Federer must know his professional career is nearing an end and any Grand Slam that he plays next could be his last.
It is unclear whether Roger will play at Wimbledon this year given his decision to focus on rehabilitation. But, If he does attend SW19 there is every chance that it may be the last time he does so as a player. Others think that he will not return until later this year in time for the US Open.