WATCH: Roger Federer hits on grass at Halle with Kei Nishikori
Roger Federer
Swiss Maestro Roger Federer is back on his beloved Grass at the coveted ATP Halle event in the lead up to Wimbledon. He withdrew from the ongoing French Open after the third round in order to be fresh for the Grass season.
Federer took to twitter a day before his fourth round match against Matteo Berrettini and wrote: “After discussions with my team, I’ve decided I will need to pull out of Roland Garros today. After two knee surgeries and over a year of rehabilitation, it’s important that I listen to my body and make sure I don’t push myself too quickly on my road to recovery. I am thrilled to have gotten three matches under my belt. There is no greater feeling than being back on court.”
Federer spoke to the media after reaching Halle and emphasized on getting in the best shape ahead of the Grass season. “Now it’s the most important time for me. I want to play my best tennis on grass and have success. I am happy, feeling good.”
On Thursday, Federer practiced on Grass for the first time in 2 years. He took to the practice courts at Halle and hit alongwith his coach and fellow tour members.
Federer practices with Nishikori
Federer’s first practice session on Grass was alongwith good friend and rival, Kei Nishikori. The Japanese took to twitter to inform fans about the same. Federer and Nishikori, both in their 30s, have been playing each other on tour for the past decade. They first met in 2011 and faced each other 11 times since then.
Nishikori has beaten Federer 3 times but hasn’t got the better of the Swiss on Grass in their 2 meetings. Federer won in Wimbledon 2019 and also defeated Nishikori at Halle in 2014.
Federer has had a decent run at the French Open before withdrawing and will be a real contender for the Grass season. He also has an opportunity to win his 21st Major at Wimbledon this year.
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Lakshya Chopra
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