Google News 'When Roger Federer started losing more often, people got more...', says writer
by SIMONE BRUGNOLI | VIEW 7958
Tennis fans are starting to miss Roger Federer more and more, who has been away from the circuit for almost a year now. The last official appearance of the 20-time Grand Slam champion dates back to last year's Australian Open, when he reached the semifinal by losing in three sets to future winner Novak Djokovic.
The double surgery on his right knee put a strain on King Roger's physique, as he planned to return to Melbourne in less than a month. Also complicit in the strict measures imposed by the Australian government - combined with the imperfect condition of his knee - the 39-year-old Swiss has decided to postpone his return to the field (which could take place in Rotterdam or Dubai in March).
Meanwhile, well-known sports journalist Simon Graf appeared in the latest edition of the 'Tennis with an Accent' podcast, where he explained how Federer's influence in his country has increased exponentially with the passage of time.
Graf praises Roger Federer
"Roger Federer is the greatest sportsman Swiss ever had," Simon Graf said. "Nothing compares to him. There was a period of time when people got used to him winning. When they were a little bit bored, even.
Like they thought, it's normal that he wins. When he started losing more often, people got more attached to him because he was not the favorite anymore." While Roger Federer is easily one of the greatest tennis players of all time, he is also considered among the biggest icons the world has ever seen in any sport.
And Graf believes a part of that has to do with how well Federer has been able to manage his relationship with the media, and how he makes sure his image is protected at all times. "I think Roger is an ideal sports figure," Graf said.
"There haven't been any scandals, from early on he was well aware of the role of media. He is well liked, he behaves himself extremely well. I think Roger off the court is an extraordinary figure. There are no missteps off the court," Graf added.
Federer caught up with a knee injury at the Australian Open last year. The semi-final against Novak Djokovic was the last professional tennis match that he played. After that, he underwent two knee surgeries during the long break due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The injury didn’t allow the legend to step on the court for the entire season. However, just when the Australian Open 2021 is a month away, Federer gave some unfortunate news. The 20-time Grand Slam winner decided to withdraw from the Grand Slam.
It is undoubtedly a heartbreaking moment for fans. However, they realize that Federer can make a comeback anytime soon.
