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“Haven’t Taken the Decision Yet”: Roger Federer Raises Doubts Over Tokyo Olympics Participation Following Wimbledon Defeat
Tennis fans around the globe witnessed heart-crushing scenes at the Wimbledon Championships 2021 quarterfinals between Roger Federer and Hubert Hurkacz. Unable to match his opponent’s level, the Swiss maestro ended his 21st Grand Slam campaign in straight sets for the first time since 2002.
The final scoreline: 3-6, 6-7(4), 0-6. Since he had invested everything in the Championships, he would need time to regroup from such a loss.
Tennis – Wimbledon – All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, London, Britain – July 7, 2021 Switzerland’s Roger Federer leaves Centre Court after losing his quarter final match against Poland’s Hubert Hurkacz Pool via REUTERS/Edward Whitaker TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY
Consequently, Federer, who wanted to play at the upcoming Tokyo Olympics from the start of the season, has now put the event under a question mark. Indeed, it would be a heavy blow for the Games if he is added to the long list of withdrawals.
Roger Federer to announce a decision soon over Tokyo Olympics participation
At the start of this year, Roger Federer claimed that his two most important goals for the 2021 season are Wimbledon and Tokyo Olympics. However, he had also clarified that the Championships were his top-most priority. Therefore, the Swiss maestro had not planned anything beyond the grass major.
“Everything waits till Wimbledon and Wimbledon is done now,” Federer said. “Haven’t taken the decision yet where we go from here. I cannot tell you anything more than that. I will sit down and hopefully make an announcement rather sooner than later, of course, for me, my family, and my team and so forth.”
Unquestionably, the weight of defeat in quarterfinals on his favorite court must be heavy on Federer. However, at 39, he played some remarkable tennis over the last eight days in five matches. It is something the Swiss maestro will take into account while deciding for Tokyo.
Tennis – Wimbledon – All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, London, Britain – July 7, 2021 Switzerland’s Roger Federer wipes his face with a towel during the break in his quarter final match against Poland’s Hubert Hurkacz REUTERS/Toby Melville
Besides the Olympics, fans and experts expressed their feelings regarding the 2021 Championships being his last. For this, too, Federer has not given any confirmation.
Tokyo Olympics might be the last chance for Federer to aim for the Gold
Given his age, it is unlikely that Federer would want to compete at 44 at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Hence, this might be the last year for him to seal the deal on the most-awaited Gold medal for Switzerland. He came closest to it in the 2012 London Olympics, where he had to settle for silver against Andy Murray.
Do you think Federer will play the Olympics this year?
Watch this story: How Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, Serena Williams, And Other Tennis Stars Travel?
The post “Haven’t Taken the Decision Yet”: Roger Federer Raises Doubts Over Tokyo Olympics Participation Following Wimbledon Defeat appeared first on EssentiallySports.
