20-time grand slam champion Roger Federer has said that he is ‘reviewing’ the possibility of a return to the European clay next year following a lengthy absence from the surface.
The world No.2 hasn’t played at the French Open since 2015 where he reached the quarter-finals in Paris. He missed 2016 due to injury concerns. Then the following two years he has opted to skip the clay in order to rest his body. Although it is possible that his absence from Roland Garros could come to an end next year.
“The clay-court season is under review,” Federer told ESPN.com. “It’s not off the table. I will know by the end of the year.”
Federer last play a competitive match on the clay at the 2016 Italian Open where he lost to Dominic Thiem in the third round. It is unknown as to when a final decision will be made, but it is likely to come as early by the end of this season. The thought process being is that Federer’s team wants to establish a full schedule in order to plan their training during the off-season.
“I would like to make up my mind ahead of time so I can plan my buildup, my fitness schedule, even the way I would approach my December practice sessions,” Federer explained. “It could benefit the clay-court season.”
On the clay, the Swiss has won 11 ATP titles. Including the 2009 French Open. His most recent triumph on the surface was back in 2015 when he defeated Pablo Cuevas in the final of the inaugural Istanbul Open.
“This is something that is obviously a big deal. If you play the clay, it changes everything.” He said about making the decision.
Federer’s immediate focus will be on this weekends Laver Cup. He will team up with Novak Djokovic to play in the doubles match. The duo will take on Kevin Anderson and Jack Sock.
“I’m thrilled, excited, I have never played with Novak,” Federer said. “We have had so many great battles in all the singles courts, and to finally team up together I think is going to be very special for both of us. I think we still have to talk over it a little bit exactly maybe either who’s going to take the lead or, you know, how do we play exactly.”
The Laver Cup will get underway on Friday.
