Roger Federer on Monday said he is “missing” Wimbledon after the grass-court Grand Slam was cancelled, but hopes to play the tournament in 2021.
The 38-year-old, who has undergone two knee surgeries this year, had already announced he will not play again until next year.
This week was scheduled to be the second week of Wimbledon, where Federer has won a record eight men’s singles titles, but the tournament was cancelled for the first time since World War II due to the coronavirus pandemic.
“Personally, it has been very pleasant to stay in the same place for a long time, I hadn’t experienced that for more than 25 years,” Federer said at the launch of the Roger Center Court running shoes created by Swiss brand On.
“But of course I miss Wimbledon, of course I would like to be there currently playing on Centre Court for a place in the second week.
“Clearly, one of my big goals, and that’s why I do recovery work every day and work so hard, and why I’m preparing for a 20-week physical preparation block this year, is because I hope to play at Wimbledon next year.”
Federer also said the coronavirus lockdown gave him the chance to recuperate following surgery, but said he will have to be “patient” as he waits to return to the court.
