Roger Federer Confirms Return Date to Tennis After Australian Open 2021 Withdrawal

Former World No. 1 Roger Federer, been out of action since early last year. After his semi-final exit at the Australian Open 2020, the Swiss superstar was forced to withdraw from the rest of the season due to an injury he suffered on his knee, which compelled him to undergo two surgeries.

After the effects of the COVID-19 global pandemic, people’s outlook towards life changed. The eight-time Wimbledon winner targeted a return on Tour at this season’s Australian Open. However, he later changed his mind, citing that he found it difficult to live without his family and children for five weeks.

Roger Federer to Return After 13 Months

Recently, there was a positive development regarding Federer’s return on Tour. The Swiss ace will be seen at the ATP Doha 250, which begins on the 8th of March. The 20-time Major winner will return to competitive tennis after a thirteen-month long hiatus. Roger is the most successful player at this venue, having won the title on three occasions, in 2005, 2006, and 2011.

Along with Roger, compatriot Stan Wawrinka, Dominic Thiem, and French tennis player Gael Monfils will be seen at this year’s event.

In 2016, Federer took a break from the Tour due to a similar situation he faced when he injured his knee for the first time. After Wimbledon that year, he paused his season and returned the following year before the Australian Open. To everyone’s surprise, the Swiss sensation lifted the title by beating his greatest rival, Rafael Nadal, in a five-set encounter.

It was his first Grand Slam title after his victory at the 2012 Wimbledon championship. He later went on to win his record-breaking 8th title at the All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club. 

Also Read: Rafael Nadal Announces Disheartening News for Fans Ahead of Australian Open 2021