Following a disappointing exit Thursday in Doha, Roger Federer has decided to pull out of next week’s Dubai Championships. The 39-year-old veteran took to Twitter Thursday evening to announce that he will be returning to training rather than compete in Dubai: a tournament that he’s won eight times. Despite this, Federer seems to be in great spirits.
Roger Federer Withdraws From Dubai
It’s been great to be back on the @atptour , loved every minute playing in Doha once again. 🙌🏼
A big thank you to the best and loyal team that helped me get here. 🙏🏼
I’ve decided it’s best to go back to training and as a result, I’ve decided to withdraw from Dubai next week. 🏋🏽 pic.twitter.com/zp65Jt832n— Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) March 11, 2021
Federer’s return to tennis wasn’t as glamorous as many fans were hoping for as he went out to Nikoloz Basilashvili in an epic three set clash (3-6 6-1 7-5), with Federer missing out an a match point in the decider. Many were hoping for a meeting between Federer and top seed Dominic Thiem in the final. Thiem, though, also suffered a loss Thursday. However, Federer’s tennis was as breath-taking as ever this week.
Plenty of fans will no doubt be disappointed in this news, but Federer’s positivity is a great sign. The tennis he displayed in his first two matches back show that he’s far from being finished with competing at the top. His three set thriller with Dan Evans showed that his game is clearly there: he just needs some more time to get back to where he was before his injury.
Federer’s decision to return to training also shows his commitment to staying right at the top of the men’s game. He clearly plans to stick around for a while longer. It’s also important to remember that he needs to take care of his body at his age, and playing too many tournaments will most likely damage his chances of remaining fit and competitive.
With the world being incredibly tough right now, Federer’s return to tennis was a welcome relief this week. Tennis fans are thrilled to see him playing again, and are already excited to see which tournament he’ll play next. Federer has a bit to work on before he reaches the heights we know he is still capable of, but it isn’t far away.
Federer will take this time to work on what he needs to and will be back competing in no time.
Main Photo from Getty.
