Roger Federer ‘definitely done’ as he dismisses talk of retirement U-turn
Roger Federer has said he is ‘definitely done’ with tennis as he refuted any suggestion of a potential U-turn.
Federer announced that the Laver Cup this month would be his last ever event as he admitted defeat in his attempts to overcome a persistent knee problem.
It has been a tough year for tennis already, with Serena Williams, John-Wilfried Tsonga and Juan Martin Del Potro also deciding to hang up their racquets.
Federer appeared in an interview on USA’s Today TV show, where host Savannah Guthrie quizzed him on his future plans.
“You know, un-retiring is a thing now,” said Guthrie, pointing out that Serena Williams appears to be wavering slightly in her decision. “You’re done?”
However, Roger Federer was unmoved, replying: “No, no. I am definitely done. I know that, yeah.”
The 20-time Grand Slam winner has not played for more than a year now, and he was out for around 14 months before that comeback attempt.
“As many of you know, the past three years have presented me with challenges in the form of injuries and surgeries,” said Federer in his statement confirming his retirement.
“I’ve worked hard to return to full competitive form. But I also know my body’s capacities and limits, and its message to me lately has been clear.
“I am 41 years old. I have played more than 1,500 matches over 24 years. Tennis has treated me more generously than I ever would have dreamt, and now I must recognise when it is time to end my competitive career.
“I want to thank you all from the bottom of my heart, to everyone around the world who has helped make the dreams of a young Swiss ball kid come true. Finally, to the game of tennis: I love you and will never leave you.”
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