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“It was clear that all experts would come out of the holes”

Speaks in Halle about his forfait for the French Open round of 16: Roger Federer.

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Keystone

In the coming week, Roger Federer will kick off the eagerly anticipated lawn season. In Halle, however, the maestro looks back on his withdrawal from the French Open.

Roger Federer left Paris last Sunday, on the day Roland Garros announced his retirement, and took a four-day break in Switzerland before heading to Halle with the whole family. On Thursday, the Basel bidder will complete his first training session on grass in Germany, albeit to a limited extent. “Still no movements because I’m still recovering from Paris,” emphasizes Federer.

His round of 16 forfait in Paris brings the 20-time Grand Slam winner, sometimes fierce criticism. But even after a few days, Federer does not regret his decision. “It was clear that afterwards all the experts would come out of the holes and give their opinion,” says Federer when asked about the mixed reactions. “That’s part of it, you have to do it. I am still totally convinced that it was the right decision. “



There were practically no doubts about his early withdrawal, but the Basel bidder does not want to reveal the exact reasons for this. «My opponents don’t have to know that. But in our team it was a very easy decision not to play against Berrettini. ” There were question marks even before the third round game against the German Dominik Koepfer. “After that, I secretly knew straight away that it was going to be very difficult. I know how my body reacts and I have to listen to it. “

“I hope I have a bonus here”

In addition, he wanted to communicate openly at all times. Federer makes it clear: “I have the feeling that I don’t have to explain myself. I hope that I have some bonus here and that people trust me. ” He gained important knowledge with the two tournaments on clay. “Thanks to the matches in Geneva and Paris, I know how the knee will react and I know my options. I have no fear that negative things could happen. “

Nevertheless, the injured knee needs special treatment these days. “The body has recovered well, but the knee needs special care,” says the 39-year-old, who is looking confidently to the upcoming highlight of the season. «Since Doha things have only improved and I have had no setbacks. Now the season really starts for me. “

Record winner Federer already beckons the 11th title win in Halle, even if a triumph this year would be a surprise. After all, Federer can still count on the support of the family at the preparatory tournament – in contrast to Wimbledon: “It is not possible for the family to come. You would have to be in quarantine for five days, that would have been too complicated. The hopes that they would be able to accompany me were soon buried, ”confesses Federer. For his favorite tournament, however, he is ready to make this sacrifice: “That is not a problem and is now part of it.”

What is your opinion on Roger Federer’s forfait at the French Open?

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