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New video reveals Roger Federer's heartbreaking reaction to loss

Roger Federer appeared to be on the verge of tears as he made his way off Rod Laver Arena on Sunday night.

In what many fear might be the last time we see the 37-year-old at the Australian Open, Federer waved goodbye to fans before heading into the tunnel and out of view.

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But new video released by the Australian Open has revealed Federer’s heartbreak as he made his way to the locker room.

As you can see above, Federer looked absolutely shattered as he made the long trek through the hall of past Australian Open champions.

Federer looked shattered. Image: Australian Open
Federer looked shattered. Image: Australian Open

The irony that he had to walk past the names of every former champion at Melbourne Park would not have been lost on Federer, after he missed his chance to add 2019 to his list of six triumphs.

The Swiss legend bowed his head as he walked, contemplating what could have been if not for a red-hot 20-year-old named Stefanos Tsistipas.

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After the loss, Federer announced a major change in his plans for 2019, which many believe is a clear sign this year will be his last.

In his post-match press conference on Sunday night, Federer revealed he will make a surprise return to the French Open after a four-year absence.

The 2009 champion withdrew from the 2016 tournament and skipped the clay season in each of the two years that followed.

“It’s a bit of a desire. I’m in a phase where I want to have fun and I’ve missed not doing it,” Federer was quoted as saying in French by Agence France-Presse.

“I don’t feel it is necessary to have a big break again.”

Roger Federer walks off Rod Laver Arena. (Photo by Fred Lee/Getty Images)
Roger Federer walks off Rod Laver Arena. (Photo by Fred Lee/Getty Images)

While Federer is yet to address his long-term future, it is far from certain he will return at age 38 to make a record 21st Australian Open appearance.

His performance in a scintillating clash with Tsitsipas was hardly that of a star on the wane, although he paid the price for an unusually high 55 unforced errors.

“I also didn’t break him at the Hopman Cup, so clearly something is wrong how I return him, what I’m trying to do,” a dejected Federer said.

“He’s doing a good job to defend them. Nevertheless, it’s very frustrating.”

After prevailing in a tiebreak to take the first set in just shy of an hour, Federer had opportunities to press his advantage but couldn’t finish his work.

The 20-time grand-slam title winner had four set points on Tsitsipas’s serve up 5-4 in the second but failed to convert.

“I have massive regrets tonight … I felt like I have to win the second set,” Federer said.

“I don’t care how I do it but I have to do it. Cost me the game tonight.”

with AAP