Swiss Tennis legend Roger Federer has described Rafael Nadal’s possible absence from the upcoming French Open as ‘brutal’ for tennis. The Spanish superstar hasn’t had a great 2023 with constant injuries ruling him out of multiple key tournaments.
Recently, Nadal further confirmed that he will be missing the upcoming Italian Open and hence fans are extremely weary about Rafa missing his favourite tournament. Hence addressing this possibility, Roger Federer, while speaking at the Miami Grand Prix, stated how Nadal absence would be tough for the sport and wished his long-time friend and rival the best.
Federer said, "It would be brutal, it would be tough for tennis if Rafa isn't going to be there," 20-times Grand Slam winner Federer told Sky Sports on Sunday. "I still hope so, I saw he pulled out of Rome so I wish him the best.”
Further, Roger Federer also spoke about his other contemporary, Novak Djokovic, who also hasn’t been a regular on the tour and hopes to see him at Roland Garros later this month. Federer also had some praiseful words for the young players, who have done across the 2023 season. "Obviously Novak (Djokovic) hasn't been playing that much so I hope he's going to be strong as well and then all the young guys coming through as well," further added Federer.
Rafael Nadal has been doubtful for Roland Garros after suffering a hip injury at the Australian Open which has taken time to heal. The 22-time grand slam winner has so far missed important clay-court events in Monte Carlo, Barcelona and Madrid Open. Similarly, Novak Djokovic, the world No. 1, has been dealing with injuries and was seen with elbow support in both Monte Carlo and SRPSKA Open. The 2023 French Open kick-starts on May 28, hence fans would be eager to see these two legends be ready for the tournament.
