Roger Federer - A decision with foresight
Roger Federer will not take part in the Australian Open in 2021. It's a decision that will certainly be painful for fans of the 39-year-old but could be of great benefit in the long run.
by Nikolaus Fink
last edit: Dec 28, 2020, 12:48 pm
It came as it almost had to come in this difficult year for Roger Federer fans: The 20-time Grand Slam winner canceled his participation in the Australian Open due to the lack of training after his two knee operations and has to continue waiting for his comeback.
As manager Tony-Godsick explained, Federer has made progress with his knee and his fitness in the past few months, but it would not be enough for a start in Australia. Instead, the 39-year-old may want to return to the ATP tour at the end of February.
Federer continues his career
It is therefore certain that Federer will continue his career, contrary to rumors to the contrary, which the Swiss himself fueled in mid-December , and will remain active in tennis. And yet the question arises as to how successful the comeback of the fifth in the world rankings can be.
Federer is close to the end of his career at the age of 39, that much is clear. It is also clear that the competition is not sleeping and that it is becoming increasingly difficult for the Swiss to win the big tournaments. But who, if not Roger Federer, could manage to compete for major triumphs shortly before and after his 40th birthday?
Federer has no stress
In this regard, the decision not to fly to Australia might even suit him. Federer now has time to get himself in good shape for his comeback, and there is no pressure to come back by the end of February or the beginning of March due to the forecast that spring is poor.
According to Federer, the highlights for him in the coming season will be Wimbledon, the Olympic Games and the US Open. And due to the long preparation time, the chances are not too bad that the maestro could be there for these highlights. The cancellation of the Australian Open, so it is a decision with foresight - even if the numerous Federer fans would prefer a comeback of their hero today rather than tomorrow.