After pulling out of the French Open as a precaution following a long spell out on the sidelines injured, Roger Federer will now switch his attention to challenging for the title at Wimbledon.
At 39 years old, Federer has been selective with the tournaments he features in, and now preparations will already be underway to get ready for arguably the sport’s most iconic event at Wimbledon.
Federer Sees Paris Dream Cut Short
Federer was hoping to land the 21st Grand Slam title of his career at the French Open in June, only to withdraw from the competition ahead of his encounter with Italian ninth seed Matteo Berrettini. The Swiss star, who is 8.5 in the tennis odds from Betfair to win Wimbledon this summer, was forced to go through a gruelling third-round encounter at Roland Garros against Dominik Koepfer. That match certainly took its toll, and Federer made the decision to not face Berrettini in the French capital.
There is little doubt that the tough encounter with Koepfer had an impact on Federer, who is still working his way back from two knee surgeries and a lengthy spell on the sidelines. The 2009 French Open winner said he was keen not to push himself too hard too soon, despite his hunger to win that elusive 21st Grand Slam title.
Perhaps Federer, who will have the backing of many punters, might also fancy his chances of success more at Wimbledon, where he has already won the title eight times at the All England Club. The French Open has been mainly dominated by Rafael Nadal over the last 16 years, and Federer might have seen a better opportunity for silverware in England.
Federer Earns Right to Withdraw
Federer might have come in for some criticism from some quarters for withdrawing from the French Open, having ended Koepfer’s hopes of reaching the next round of the prestigious competition. Former Wimbledon champion Boris Becker admitted “any other player” might have been in hot water to “just throw Koepfer out and then quit?”. However, the German feels Federer has “earned” his iconic status, and feels the veteran made the right call to switch his focus on Wimbledon.
Federer, who according to the latest tennis tips is expected to be a contender at the business end of Wimbledon, will now be looking to get the balance right between rest and practice ahead of the next Grand Slam. The old master says he understands his body a lot better, and no doubt he will do everything he can to be ready to go the distance at Wimbledon.
London’s Grand Slam event has always suited Federer’s style of play, with normally fewer rallies, meaning his strong service game can come into play. Points are often secured quicker at Wimbledon, which again will suit the legendary player as he approaches the end of his career.
Injury setbacks have been an unwanted feature towards the end of Federer’s career, but perhaps there is one final swansong at Wimbledon to come before this tennis great decides to call it a day.