'The only unknown is at the level of Roger Federer's knee', says former Top 10

Roger Federer fans will have to wait a little longer to be able to see the Swiss player back on the pitch after a long absence linked to knee problems. The former world number one, currently 5th player in the ATP ranking, as announced by agent Tony Godsick, will not take part in the Australian Open, or the highly anticipated Grand Slam which marks the resumption of activities scheduled for February. According to the latest rumors, there are also reasons related to the restrictions for the pandemic. Late Sunday night, the cold shower arrived for the organizers of the Australian Open, with Federer announcing through his agent that he was not participating in the tournament. After 22 editions in a row, with 6 successes, the 39-year-old Swiss has decided not to take the field on the Melbourne tennis courts. His return after practically a year of stoppage due to knee problems resolved through two surgeries, is therefore postponed to later, with all due respect to the awaited Australian Grand Slam. But what is this forfeit due to? In his still precarious physical condition? In reality Roger Federer, fresh from a period of practice in Dubai, is fine. The decision not to fly to Australia is linked to the Covid measures imposed with relative restrictions. Speaking with 20min website, his former Davis Cup teammates Marc Rosset and Yves Allegro believe the 39-year-old will make his comeback at an indoor event in March.

Rosset comments on Roger Federer's future

"At 39, he probably needs more time to be reassured," Marc Rosset said. "Roger Federer is someone who takes a lot of precautions, he doesn't play with his body. In his 20-year career, he has done everything to avoid the slightest anti-inflammatory." Rosset added that he was not too concerned about Roger Federer's match fitness, or rather the lack of it, when he does eventually return to the tour. "Should we fear the lack of matches? I do not believe," Rosset said. "Let's not forget that we are coming out of a strange year, with very few tournaments and to which will be added a mini ATP Cup and an Australian Open. At the start of the 2021 season, Roger Federer will therefore only be one or two tournaments behind the others. So the real question is simple: does his body allow him to train hard? In my opinion, the only unknown is at the level of his knee," Rosset added. "Because when it comes to the game, the choices, I don't care. It's like riding a bicycle."

from Tennis World USA https://ift.tt/3o0dpI1