Roger FedererThe withdrawal of Without a doubt was one of the most emotional moments of 2022. After 24 years of career, the Swiss phenomenon has decided to hang up his racket. The right knee has exhausted the King’s patience in the last two and a half years, forcing him to undergo three surgeries.
Although he tried hard, Federer’s MRI last July confirmed his fears. There was no further progress. The 20-time Grand Slam champion played his last match at the Laver Cup alongside rival Rafael Nadal, who couldn’t hold back tears at the ceremony that followed.
The problem was never resolved and the Swiss maestro had to accept reality. The former world number 1 had attempted a timid comeback in 2021, accumulating nine wins and four losses. After being beaten cleanly by Hubert Hurkacz in the 2021 Wimbledon quarterfinals, Roger had knee surgery again in hopes of one last magic for all his fans.
Federer was supposed to compete at the ATP 500 in Basel, as well as the Laver Cup, but his form prevented him from being competitive in singles.
Stan Wawrinka shared poignant new words for Roger Federer
In an interview with the Swiss newspaper Le Matin, Stan Wawrinka commented on the retirement of his illustrious compatriot Roger Federer.
Stan wants to get some more satisfaction before he hangs up his racket. Wawrinka said: «Roger Federer has won countless times on the ATP in Basel and it’s a strange feeling not to see him here. The fans loved him and he always expressed great tennis.
It was an honor and a pleasure to play their own tournaments we have shared so many moments that we will never forget. This year is different without him, we are all sad. We were hoping that he could play this tournament for the last time, but his knee did not allow it. His retirement is the sign that our generation is coming to an end.»
