Roger Federer withdraws from Tokyo Olympics

Picture Credit: AP

20-time Grand Slam winner Roger Federer has decided to withdraw his name from the upcoming Olympic Games in Tokyo. The 39-year-old recently took part in Wimbledon 2021 and played some mesmerizing tennis before getting knocked out in the quarter-final at the hands of Polish player Hubert Hurkacz.

While there were doubts if Federer will participate in Tokyo or not, the Swiss tennis ace confirmed the news of him pulling out of the Summer Games through a tweet on Tuesday. He stated, "During the grass season, I unfortunately experienced a setback with my knee, and have accepted that I must withdraw from the Tokyo Olympic Games."

I am greatly disappointed: Roger Federer

After undergoing two knee surgeries last year, the 39-year-old finally returned to court after a long gap of 13 months. Federer had been very cautious since his return and pulled out of the French Open ahead of 4th round clash to keep himself fit for Wimbledon 2021. He pushed his limits in the Championship but unfortunately fell short of his target of winning 21st Grand Slam title.

After aggravating his knee issues during the tournament, Federer had to take the step of withdrawing his name from the upcoming Games. Reflecting on his decision, he stated, "I am greatly disappointed, as it has been an honor and highlight of my career each time I have represented Switzerland. I have already begun rehabilitation in the hopes of returning to the tour later this summer. I wish the entire Swiss team the best of luck and I will be rooting hard from afar."

Notably, Roger Federer took part in 2012 Olympic Games where he won silver medal in men's singles as Andy Murray won the gold medal. The Swiss ace does have a gold medal in the Summer Games which he won in Beijing in 2008 in men's doubles event, with Stanislas Wawrinka.