Former Tennis Star Raises Doubts Over Roger Federer Repeating His Spectacular 2017 Comeback Next Year

Since Roger Federer has been missing in action for several months, the entire tennis fraternity is waiting for him to return. Having gone through arthroscopic surgery on his right knee, Federer is likely to make a comeback for the 2021 Australian Open. The 20-time Grand Slam champion will aim to add another major championship to his tally to keep his record preserved.

Recently in an interview, Italian former professional tennis player, Paolo Bertolucci, gave his opinion on whether Federer can repeat his 2017 success story next year. Bertolucci revealed that it would be extremely hard for Federer, as four years have gone by since the 2017 season. He asserted a lot will depend upon Federer’s level of form after his return.

Very difficult for Roger Federer, says former Italian Player

Interestingly, Bertolucci just released his book “The Renaissance of Italian Tennis”, written with Vincenzo Martucci. Currently working as a sports commenter on Sky Sports, Bertolucci won the Davis Cup with Italy in 1976.

“It’s very, very difficult, because it’s been four years, but it’s also true that for others it would be twice as much. Yes, he [Federer] will have a chance too, but we have to see at what level he will be able to express himself, how he will return after the operations,” said Bertolucci.

(Quotes have been translated)

In 2016, Federer took a six-month break from the tour because of knee surgery. Despite the long hiatus, Federer made a scintillating comeback the following year by winning two Grand Slam titles. With a win-loss record of 54–5 in the 2017 season, Federer clinched seven titles in total.

With the Tokyo Olympics postponed to July next year, Federer is most likely to tweak his schedule accordingly to avoid fatigue. The World No. 5 has never won an Olympic gold medal in singles, although he won the Olympic men’s doubles title in 2008 with Stan Wawrinka.