World of sport reacts to Roger Federer’s retirement announcement
The sport of tennis will have to find a new champion after Roger Federer announced his retirement from the sport. Despite being the world’s most decorated player, the Swiss star faced criticism over his on-court performances and his decision to step back from the game that he loved.
Federer’s announcement was a shock, especially for his fans, who had expected him to stick around for at least another year or two. Federer took to Instagram on Monday to deliver his statement, confirming he will hang up his shoes following his disappointing 2019 season.
Despite his success in his home town of Basel, Switzerland, he only took 14 titles. This could explain his decision to retire; he feels he’s had enough of trying, and simply doesn’t have the energy to continue playing at his current age.
He’s spent the last five months dealing with a serious knee problem, and the final blow that caused his retirement announcement came on Sunday when he had to withdraw from his second-round match at the Australian Open. He went on to defeat Marin Cilic in the second set, ending the tournament that began as a battle of top players.
In the statement given to the press, Federer also revealed other changes he’ll be making to his life off the court. He doesn’t expect to play any tournament in the foreseeable future, and his only scheduled appearance is the ATP Finals in Rome at the end of the year.
Federer doesn’t want to waste anymore on-court time, and he also has plans to spend time with his family.
The final blow came Sunday night when Federer had to withdraw from the third-round match at the Australian Open after he dislocated his knee in the third round against Marin Cilic.
The Australian Open is his home Grand Slam and he was due to play the tournament in January. The Swiss legend is a multiple time champion at the event, having won it twice, including a seventh-final triumph in the 2017 final.
The news that Federer will retire has been met with mixed reactions. Many supporters of the tennis star and fellow tennis star Nick Kyrgios have
