Roger Federer Slams French Open Criticisms

Swiss tennis star Roger Federer?opted not to play at Roland Garros in order to save himself for the grass-court season.

His decision to skip this year saw him receive criticism from the Madrid Open tournament director, Ion Tiriac.

Tiriac said: ?Federer is definitely the greatest player of all time, but he doesn?t behave correctly, I don?t think that his attitude is fair.

?It rarely happens in other sports. Lewis Hamilton doesn?t stop after five F1 races because he is not willing.?

Earlier this week, Federer defended his actions and decision to skip the clay court season. Although he gave a diplomatic response, his unhappiness was there for all to see.

Federer said,??There is freedom of expression – anyone can say what they want! I’m sure I do not agree with those who say I should just play. Well, Roger is here – and then he gets slaughtered.

?I have higher standards, I want people to see the best Roger Federer play on clay too. I’m fine, but I need preparation so that I can keep up with everyone.

?People sometimes forget that it’s not so simple. And as I said: I also have four children with whom I want to spend time!

?So [I] cannot fulfill all my dreams. But, sorry, I’ve been on tour for almost twenty years, playing it fully for 17 years from January to November! Not like Hewitt or Roddick, who sometimes miss a season because the journey is too far.

?My injury then made it clear: If I want to stay longer on the tour – and one would think that this is better for the tour – I have to take breaks.

?I understand the frustration of some tournament directors – even those for whom I have already done a lot. But I also think they could protect me and say: Roger is free to decide! Sometimes the criticism goes a bit too far.?