Courtesy-Yahoo Sports Australia
Roger Federer, who is aiming for a record 21st Grand Slam victory at Wimbledon later this month, withdrew from the French Open on Sunday. “After consultations with my management, I’ve decided to withdraw from the French Open today,” the 20-time Grand Slam champion said in a statement.
“After two knee surgeries and over a year of therapy, it’s critical that I listen to my body and don’t overdo things on my journey to recovery. I’m overjoyed to have three bouts under my belt. There is no better feeling than returning to the court. See you all soon!”
Federer, who hasn’t played in 17 months due to a knee injury, was physically depleted in his 7-6(5), 6-7(3), 7-6(4), 7-5 victory over Germany’s Dominik Koepfer on Saturday.
In the fourth round, the 39-year-old was scheduled to meet Italy’s Matteo Berrettini. He had previously stated that he was debating whether to compete in the second week of the clay-court Grand Slam because his season aim was Wimbledon, which begins on June 28.
“We go over these matches… we thoroughly analyze them and look ahead to what’s next, and we’ll do the same tonight and tomorrow. The Roland Garros event regrets Roger Federer’s retirement, who put up a magnificent fight yesterday night,” tournament director Guy Forget said in a statement.
“We were all thrilled to see Roger return to Paris, where he played three high-level matches. We wish him the best of luck for the rest of the season,” he added.