Roger Federer announced on Tuesday that he is withdrawing from the Tokyo Olympics, which get underway on July 23.
The 39-year-old, who underwent two procedures on his right knee last year, rekindled hope of a comeback as he made the quarterfinals of Wimbledon.
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However, Federer was knocked out by Polish youngster Hubert Hurkacz in straight sets in the quarterfinal, with the third set score of 6-0. It was Federer’s first bagel at Wimbledon and only the second of his decorated Grand Slam career.
— Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) July 13, 2021
“During the grasscourt season, I unfortunately experienced a setback with my knee, and have accepted that I must withdraw from the Tokyo Olympic Games,” Federer tweeted on Tuesday.
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“I am greatly disappointed, as it has been an honour 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. As always, Hopp Schwiz!!”
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Federer, the 20-time major champion, had also withdrawn from the fourth round of French Open as he is still testing out the strength of his knee.
One of the biggest accolades missing from the Swiss master’s resume is a singles Olympics gold. Federer had won a gold medal in men’s doubles, with Stan Wawrinka, at the Beijing Games in 2008.
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Four years later, when Wimbledon hosted the London 2012 Olympics tennis event, the Swiss lost the final to Andy Murray and had to settle for a silver.
Federer joins a long list of star tennis players who have pulled out of the Olympics. Rafael Nadal, Serena Williams, Dominic Thiem had already announced their withdrawal.
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Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic is also not sure of his participation due to the strict virus protocols.
