Roger Federer spoke to Sky Sport Italy during the Nitto ATP Finals in Turin about his recovery from injury and his hopes to return to the court in 2022. The 20-time Grand Slam champion underwent his third knee surgery in the past two years last August.
Federer hoped to make his come-back at the start of the 2022 season, but unfortunately he will have to be patient and it will not possible to play at next January’s Australian Open. In this period he enjoys spending more time with his wife and his four children.
“I am disappointed but I don’t want to rush the times. Going back to the courts at the age of 40-41-42, it doesn’t change much, the important thing is to go back. I am a happy father. I am appreciating the fact that I can drive again”, said Federer.
Federer has not played since Wimbledon, where he was beaten by Hubert Hurkacz in straight sets in the quarter finals.
“It will take some time. It’s a bit sad and disappointing, but I knew it would take a long time to recover. I knew what the consequences of the operation would be. My desire is to continue playing tennis at the highest level, but I have to take one step at a time. For now I focus only on rehabilitation. I have learned a lot in past few years. The most important is to come back. Nothing changes a month more or less. I don’t want to be in a hurry. I want to go back. That’s my heart tells me. Thanks to my team for my support. I am walking without problems and will soon start driving again”
Federer enjoyed watching the ATP Final in Turin.
“I would like to play in Turin one day. It will be difficult to play the Finals next year, because I will miss a good part of the season. The matches were good. I see a lot similarities with London. I am sure that the Italian DNA is giving an extra value to the tournament”.
Federer’s coach Ivan Ljubicic confirmed that Federer wants to play again in 2022, but he has ruled out a return for the Australian Open.
“There is no chance. When you are 40, you cannot recover as fast as before and will return when it is 100%. We have talked a lot and I can guarantee that he wants to continue playing tennis. I don’t think he will retire abruptly and in the short term”, said Ljubicic.
