Roger Federer makes startling admission in major injury update

Roger Federer has revealed he still hasn't been able to run as he continues his recovery from a third knee surgery, but is adamant he wants to return to the ATP tour.

The 20-time grand slam champion hasn't played since Wimbledon last July and had a third knee operation in August.

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After two procedures on the knee in 2020, Federer made a short-lived return in 2021 before re-injuring it.

But despite recently turning 40, the Swiss champion is adamant that he wants to return to professional tennis.

"I have a very interesting and important few months ahead of me," Federer said at a sponsor's event for Credit Suisse on Wednesday.

"I feel like I will know a whole lot more this coming April where my body is going to be like.

"Up until now I wasn't really allowed to run yet, do the heavy workload with jumps and stop-and-go's. So, I hope that's all going to start, hopefully in a couple of weeks, and then we will see how the body will react to that."

Federer revealed he is hoping to be back hitting tennis balls in April or May.

"The drive is there, I'm really motivated to do my work and what I'm allowed to do," he said.

"I did it all again this morning and I'm back in the gym tomorrow.

"It's still good times even though it's a little bit slow because I would love to do way more, but the doctors and everybody is holding me back a little bit.

"I really hope that I can put weight on my knee again in two to three weeks.

"Then we'll see how the body reacts so we can hit the ball again in April or May."

Roger Federer happy for Rafa Nadal after 21st major

The former World No.1 was tied for the men's all-time grand slam record until last week, when Rafa Nadal took the outright lead with his 21st major at the Australian Open.

Federer is still tied with Novak Djokovic in second place on 20, with the Serbian star unable to compete in Australia after being deported.

Federer, who congratulated Nadal on social media on Sunday, said he had “no problem” with his great friend and rival overtaking him.

“I’m the first guy to be happy for anybody who breaks any record, because I know how hard it is to do,” he said.

Federer said he watched some of the Australian Open final between Nadal and Daniil Medvedev, but didn't manage to see the entirety of the five hour, 24 minute marathon.

“The match took too long, and I’ve got too many children so I couldn’t watch every point, but I tuned in for the very end and it was nice to see the emotions," he revealed.

“It gets you all emotional to see such an incredible hard-fought victory.”

After Nadal's triumph, Federer posted on Instagram: "To my friend and great rival Rafael Nadal, heartfelt congratulations on becoming the first man to win 21 Grand Slam singles titles.

"A few months ago we were joking about both being on crutches, amazing. Never underestimate a great champion.

“Your incredible work ethic, dedication and fighting spirit are an inspirational to me and countless others around the world.

“I am proud to share this era with you and honoured to play a role in pushing you to achieve more. As you have done for me for the past 18 years.

“I am sure you have more achievements ahead but for now enjoy this one!”

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