“Still Has a Backlog”: Coach Severin Luthi Gives Roger Federer’s Fitness Update

Swiss maestro Roger Federer is going to take a late bus for the ongoing clay-court swing. He will arrive at the ATP 250 Geneva Open, which is only a week ahead of the French Open 2021. Indeed, it is good news for his fans that he will also play at Roland Garros; however, his coach Severin Luthi is wary of the work they have to do going ahead.

The 20-time Grand Slam champion made a small cameo in Qatar Open 2021 after a 13-month break from tennis. He is now back to training with the Wimbledon Championships and Tokyo Olympics as his goals.

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Federer’s fitness is a priority for coach Severin Luthi

Watching Roger Federer on a tennis court is easy, but coaching him must be the opposite. But in a recent interview, Severin Luthi, the Swiss maestro’s coach since 2007, seems to have a different take on training the tennis superstar. He even explained how the current World No. 8 makes his job enjoyable.

“Roger gives you a lot back,” the Swiss coach said. “I just try to do everything in my power to help him… Roger is a very good listener, that is important. But I see us coaches more as consultants. In the end, he decides on the pitch.” 

(All quotes are translated from German to English via Google Translate)

While it might sound like a breeze, sitting in Federer’s box and giving him motivation in the toughest of situations cannot be a simple job. Luthi said, “I try to exude a certain calm. If I have the feeling that it is appropriate to show emotions or to get up, then I’ll do it.”

Currently, Federer is preparing to play at the ATP Geneva Open 2021, starting on May 15. Regarding that, Luthi showed some concern, but he is happy about playing on home turf. “In terms of fitness, Roger still has a backlog, which is a priority,” he said. “It’s always special for us to play in Switzerland.”

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Is Roger Federer playing in Madrid before Geneva?

Federer, who was on the entry list of Mutua Madrid Open 2021, decided not to participate in the event, even though competing in a challenging tournament such as a Masters 1000 clay event would have helped him prepare more for Paris.

Undoubtedly, the Swiss maestro has raised excitement for Paris with his participation. Hopefully, fans will see him compete at his highest level again.

Are you excited to see Federer play in the French Open 2021?

Also Read: Why Is Hawk-Eye or Electronic Line-Calling System Not Used on Tennis Clay Courts?

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