Advertisement

Roger Federer's shock injury announcement stuns tennis world

Roger Federer waves goodbye to the crowd.
Roger Federer has announced he won't be returning in 2020 following a set back with his knee rehabilitation. (Getty Images)

Roger Federer has left the tennis world stunned after announcing he won’t be returning to tennis in 2020 after an injury setback.

The 38-year-old tennis champ recently announced he was back to training after he underwent knee surgery following the 2020 Australian Open.

AMAZING: Federer makes history as world's richest athlete

WOW: Gauff responds to Federer's 'Blackout Tuesday' post

But in a major shock, Federer took to Twitter to announce he had suffered a setback while working back to fitness in rehabilitation during the coronavirus pandemic.

The setback will see Federer sit out the remainder of the Tour, if it resumes following the coronavirus pandemic.

“Dear fans, I hope you are staying safe and healthy,” Federer said in a statement.

“A few weeks ago, having experienced a setback during my initial rehabilitation, I had to have an additional arthroscopic procedure on my right knee.

“Now, much like I did leading up to the 2017 season, I plan to take the necessary time to be 100% ready to play at my highest level.

“I will be missing my fans and the tour dearly but, I will look forward to seeing everyone back on tour at the start of the 2021 season.”

Federer may not miss Grand Slams

While Federer has announced he won’t be returning in 2020, it is unclear how much of the Tour he will miss.

Novak Djokovic indicated that he would rather miss the US Open - if it is played - and instead return to competition on clay ahead of the rescheduled French Open.

Nadal has also expressed concerns over travelling to the US under strict restrictions.

Federer went under the knife back in February following the Aus Open and fans were under the impression his rehabilitation was going well after videos of him exercising.

But the Swiss maestro recently revealed that he couldn't "see a reason" to return to a normal training regime, instead deciding to give his body some much needed rest.

Roger Federer covers his face and looks dejected after losing.
Roger Federer looks dejected after losing against Novak Djokovic. (Photo by TPN/Getty Images)

"I am happy with my body now and I still believe that the return of the tour is a long way off," Federer said.

"And I think it's important mentally to enjoy this break, having played so much tennis.

“When I'm getting towards returning and have a goal to train for, I think I will be super motivated."

The ATP Tour has been suspended since 12 March due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Wimbledon was cancelled for the first time since World War II, but the French Open was postponed in an attempt to play it at the end of the year.

Players are unclear whether the US Open or the French Open will go ahead in 2020.