Roger Federer, the 20-time Grand Slam champion, has left thousands of fans disappointed as he announced that he will not be participating in this year’s Roland Garros. Despite being in Paris at the same time as the prestigious tournament, Federer has made it clear that he will not be stepping onto the clay courts without a good reason.
In a recent conversation with Lequipe, Federer explained his decision, stating, “I would like to go back there like at Wimbledon last year, but for a good reason, otherwise people will ask me: ‘what are you doing there?'” The Swiss maestro is currently in Paris, where he was spotted honing his tennis skills at a UNIQLO event for his clothing brand.
Although Federer will be missing the French Open, he has expressed his desire to return to Wimbledon after his retirement. Last year, he made a memorable appearance at the center court, where he was warmly welcomed by the audience with applause and a standing ovation.
Reflecting on his decision to watch tennis matches from the stands, Federer shared in an interview with the Wall Street Journal, “I felt very content and at peace, sitting and not playing. Because a year before, when there was the 100th-year celebration of Centre Court, I felt that I maybe didn’t want to be there.”
While Federer’s absence from Roland Garros may disappoint his fans, his dedication to returning to Wimbledon and his enjoyment of watching tennis matches show his continued passion for the sport. What do you think about Federer’s decision to skip the French Open? Share your thoughts in the comments below.