Swiss legend Roger Federer recently announced that he will be undergoing another knee surgery and will miss the US swing at the least. The decision comes after a strenuous clay and grass court swing for the maestro. As the Tennis world recovers from the heartbreaking news, the US Open continues to inch closer and closer. Offering a ray of hope to Federer’s ardent fans, the player’s countryman and former player has made a bold prediction.
Roger Federer to undergo surgery on his knee
It was inevitable that age would eventually catch up with Federer, yes, even Federer. His knee has been the major cause of his concerns, nagging the star for many years now. Even in 2020, the former World No.1 underwent arthroscopic right knee surgeries in the months of February and May. He missed the rest of the year, and returned in 2021. The Tennis world was looking forward to a long-term stint on the circuit from Switzerland’s greatest. However, it was not to be.
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Having recently turned 40, Federer announced that after deep consultations, he arrived at the decision to undergo another knee surgery. The call came about a fortnight before the US Open 2021, meaning that the icon would have to wait an additional year in his bid to grab another elusive Slam. Taking to social media, Federer made it clear that he intends to return to the tour after spending time walking with crutches. Though the exact date of his return is unknown, he has left an ounce of optimism.
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Heinz Gunthardt hopes to see Federer back soon
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The importance of Federer’s mere presence for the sport of Tennis cannot be overstated. In response to Federer’s disappointing news, Tennis expert and fellow Swiss Heinz Gunthardt has offered some hope of another comeback. Gunthardt is a former doubles major winner as well as a coach. A self-proclaimed fan of Roger, he believes there is more left in his tank.
In a recent interview, the 62-year-old commented on the road to recovery for Federer. “I think he will run up again somewhere and hit balls- if not on the ATP Tour, then at a Match for Africa or at the Laver Cup,” said Gunthardt. “A decision will not be due until a few months. On day X, he will train again and see if and how rocky the path to a high level will be. Because he was doing so well, I can imagine that Roger certainly intends to want to repeat it [a comeback].”
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News of Federer’s surgery has left fans of the maestro disheartened. 2022 will be a key year in how the remainder of his career pans out. Do you think the Swiss ace has what it takes to add another chapter to his legacy? Or are we nearing the last chapter in the fairy tale? Have your say.
READ MORE: Is Roger Federer Playing at US Open 2021?