Is Roger Federer playing one last farewell match at the Swiss Indoors in Basel?

Is Roger Federer playing one last farewell match at the Swiss Indoors in Basel?

Roger Federer (IMAGO/ Photo by Mark Greenwood/IPS/Shutterstock)

Roger Federer gave the most saddening news to fans this year when he announced that he will be retiring from the sport. Having turned Pro back in 1998, Federer played in four different decades and build a career and a legacy that will remain unmatched for years to come.

A true gentleman of the sport, Federer announced his decision to retire from the sport shortly after the 2022 US Open concluded. The Swiss maestro returned for the 2022 Laver Cup where the crowd in London paid him an emotional tribute that had every tennis fan’s eyes filled with tears.

However, with Federer named in the players’ list for the 2022 Swiss Indoors played in Basel, his hometown, there remains a bit of confusion. A confusion, about whether he will return for a final bow before his home fans as he is the 3-time defending champion and the most decorated winner of the tournament as well.

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Roger Federer makes the final call on playing at the 2022 Swiss Indoors

Roger Federer
Roger Federer celebrating the 2019 Swiss Indoors title

With fans hoping for a Federer return in Basel, the local boy has delivered the final decision. Despite the tournament organisers’ vested interest in giving a farewell to their local hero and an all-time great of the sport, the 20-time major winner has refused the offer.

Saying he’s not emotionally ready to get a farewell once again, Federer confirmed that he won’t be a part of the tournament and the doubles match with rival-turned-friend Rafael Nadal was the one last time he picked up the racket professionally.

With 103 Tour titles to his name, the 2nd most for a male player, Federer is now officially retired having said his goodbye to the tennis world at the Laver Cup. While he has promised to stay in touch and play in exhibition matches, the famous one-handed backhand will not be seen on the Tour once again.

While Federer confirms that he won’t be at the Swiss Indoors this year, the tournament can hope that they are able to show their respect and admiration for their 10-time champion in the 2023 season instead provided they feel it’s too late as Federer would have retired from the sport for more than a year.

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