It has been a tough year for Roger Federer, who is again spending time on the sidelines to recuperate and come back stronger. The Swiss legend recently provided a positive update regarding his health. He also spoke about Novak Djokovic’s fantastic year and praised the Serb.
Federer is suffering ever since he hurt his already injured knee at Wimbledon last year. He then underwent two surgeries keeping him out of action for many months. He now needs a third procedure and for that, he has ended his 2021 season early.
Recently it was reported that the Swiss has already undergone surgery and is recuperating really well. In a recent interview, Federer confirmed that as he said that the worst is over.
“I’m feeling actually really good, considering you know that things are not (as bad) as I expected they would be,” Federer said to the sports information service SID. “I’m recovering well and rehab is going really well, I must say. I’ve had no setbacks you know, and everyday is a better day. I’m feeling strong and excited for what’s to come.”
Many people believe that this injury will be the end of him. However, the 20-time Grand Slam winner feels he was prepared for it from his injury-related experiences in 2020.
“I experienced it of course last year and I was actually surprised at how easy it was for me to go through the rehab process,” Federer said. “I know it’s not everyone’s favourite thing to do as a top athlete but I think after all these years of travel it was also nice to be home and having more time for the family.”
The 36-year-old assured his fans that he will be back in action as quickly as possible. However, he does not want to rush it as taking one step at a time will be the most sensible move for the Swiss.
“Of course, I wish I could be back on the tennis court as quick as possible, but I have to be patient,” he added. “Look it’s a slow period right now, I gotta take it step-by-step. So far, so good, so I’m very happy.”
Federer then shifted his focus to Novak Djokovic and his failed attempt to win the Calendar Grand Slam this season. However, the Swiss was full of praise for the current World No. 1 and believes that the Calendar Grand Slam will happen very soon.
“I think it is possible, it’s gonna happen again,” Federer said about the Calendar Slam. “We saw it with Novak, with myself, with Rafa, that we come extremely close. Just doing it, you know, I think you need a bit of luck. You need perseverance, you need strength, you need everything. I think it’s gonna be hard but possible. What Novak did this year was, of course, truly exceptional.”
