Former Swiss tennis star Marc Rosset says he is not sure if and when Roger Federer will return, but acknowledged a great champion should never be underestimated. Federer, 40, underwent two knee surgeries in 2020.
Federer returned last year but played just five events before deciding to have another knee surgery. Federer was 39 years old and coming off two knee surgeries when he reached the Wimbledon quarterfinals last year.
Federer, who underwent a third knee surgery last August, could return in the second part of this season. “I can’t comment on Roger Federer, I don’t know. As he said in his congratulatory message to Rafa, a great champion should not be underestimated, they are capable of coming back, Federer accomplished that feat well in 2017 in Australia,” Rosset told RTS, according Tennis Up To Date.
The message that Federer published about Nadal’s victory in Melbourne
Federer and Nadal have formed one of the greatest rivalries in tennis but off the court they have a good relationship. After Nadal won the Australian Open and collected a record 21 Grand Slam titles, Federer was one of the first to congratulate Nadal.
“What a match! To my friend and great rival Rafael Nadal. Sincere congratulations on becoming the first man to win 21 Grand Slam singles titles. A few months ago we joked that you were both on crutches.
Incredible. Never underestimate a great champion,” Federer wrote on his Instagram story. “His incredible work ethic, dedication and fighting spirit are an inspiration to me and many others around the world.
I am proud to share this era with you and am honored to play a role in pushing you to achieve more, as you have done for me for the past 18 years. I’m sure you have more achievements ahead of you, but for now enjoy this one!” Hopefully Federer returns this year and gives the game one last chance.
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