Roger Federer has confirmed he will not take part in the 2021 Australian Open which will take place from February 8 to February 21 in Melbourne.
The Swiss announced his package on December 28. A year after his last semi-final match in the Australian tournament, he once again postpones his return to competition.
While it was thought that the reason for his package was physical, especially because of his recurring right knee problems, the reason could be family.
“Roger has decided not to play the 2021 Australian Open. He has made strong progress in the last couple of months with his knee and his fitness.” Federer’s manager Tony Goldsick said.
However, after consultation with his team, he decided that the best decision for him in the long run is to return to competitive tennis after the Australian Open.” Goldsick added.
The head of player liaison at Tennis Australia Andre Sa has revealed the impact hotel quarantine had on Federer’s decision to withdraw from the Australian Open, with his recovery from knee surgery only part of the picture.
“The main reason was the quarantine. I talked to him a month ago and he had two options. He could come with the whole family and they could quarantine with him,” Sa said.
“The problem is that Mirka and her children couldn’t leave the room. They would have to stay 14 days in the room. The exception is only for players. He could go out, train and come back, but the family couldn’t. Mirka did not approve the idea.” Sa added.
Some players on the circuit have been reluctant to join in the first Grand Slam of the season because of this quarantine imposed on their arrival in Australia.
Federer the next Grand Slam tournament could be Roland Garros scheduled from May 23 to June 6 or Wimbledon from June 28 to July 11.
