Some of the world’s top players have sent their support to Roger Federer who is set to undergo surgery on his knee and has warned he could be absent from the sport for ‘many months.’
In a video published on Instagram on Sunday, Federer said doctors have recommended that he undergo another operation after worsening his knee injury whilst playing on the grass earlier this year. Making it the third time he will have surgery on his right knee within the past two years. The 20-time Grand Slam champion says he is hopeful of returning to the Tour ‘in some shape or form.’ However, he admits that it won’t be easy and nothing is for certain.
“I am realistic, don’t get me wrong. I know how difficult it is at this age to do another surgery. I want to be healthy. I will go through the rehab process while I’m still active which I think is going to help me for this long period of time.” He said.
Daniil Medvedev played against Ferderer on the Tour twice in 2018 and once in 2019 where he lost all three of their encounters. Shortly after winning the National Bank Open title, the Russian told reporters at his press conference that he hopes the Swiss player will be able to return to the Tour soon.
“We all love watching him play,” Medvedev replied when told about Federer’s announcement. “Hopefully we can see him back on Tour, because I think that’s what he wants. That’s what everybody wants. I wish him a speedy recovery.”
Juan Martin del Potro commented on Federer’s Instagram video saying – ‘all the best Amigo. We will be back.’ The Argentine is also on the recovery from a serious knee injury and hasn’t played a tournament since June 2019. Del Potro is currently undergoing rehab and it is unclear as to when he will return to competitive tennis.
Australia’s Nick Kyrgios sent his well wishes to the former world No.1 by saying ‘get better goat.’ Goat is an acronym for Greatest Of All Time. Back in February Kyrgios outlined his argument for why he believes his Swiss rival is the best player in history.
“With his skill set, the way he plays the game, I think it’s pure. I actually think talent-wise Nadal and Djokovic aren’t even close to Roger,” Kyrgios said during the Australian Open. “Talent-wise, just purely based on talent the way Federer plays, his hands, his serving, his volleys, untouchable.”
During his career, Federer has won 103 ATP titles, spent 310 weeks as world No.1 and has earned more than $130M in prize money.
