What if Roger Federer’s thrilling three sets clash against Novak Djokovic on Saturday was the last competitive match he played in Paris?
The 37-year-old was knocked out in the semi-finals of the Paris Masters by the in-form Djokovic in what was one of the most memorable clashes between the two in their rivalry. Federer saved all 12 break points he faced during the three hour encounter, but came up short in the decisive tiebreaker. Enabling Djokovic to set up a final showdown against Russia’s Karen Khachanov.
“Overall, it was a good tournament. I can look back and think it was definitely worth it to come to Paris. The welcome was great. I played some good tennis, so I can be happy.” Federer said afterwards.
In recent years, it has become somewhat of a rarity to see the world No.3 play in France. This week was the first time he has played at the AccorHotels Arena since 2015. He missed the event last year due to a back injury. Although tournament director Guy Forget blasted the Swiss player for his withdrawal. Federer hasn’t also played at Roland Garros, France’s biggest tennis event, since 2015.
Federer remains on the fence about if he will return to Roland Garros next year. In recent years he has opted to skip the clay-court season in order to rest his body and recover. Back in 2016 he was forced to miss six months of the tour due to a knee injury.
“No idea if it was the last match (in Paris),” he told reporters.
“As I said for the French Open, I will decide at the end of the year to see how it will have an impact on my physical training.
“Bercy (Paris Masters) as for next year, it’s like every year, it’s always difficult.”
Whilst the inevitable talk about Federer’s retirement escalates as he gets older, there is no indication that it will be in the near future. Earlier this week his coach, Severin Luthi, said during an interview with Le Temps that he believes Federer will hang up his racket in ‘one to three years.’
“I can’t foresee too much in advance, but I don’t think it will be my last match here (in Paris).” Federer concluded.
Federer will return to action at the ATP World Tour Finals, which will get underway on November 11th. He will be bidding to win the season-ending tournament for a record seventh time.
