“After discussions with my team, I have decided that I must exit Roland Garros today,” the 39-year-old said in a statement on Sunday.
“After two knee surgeries and more than a year of rehabilitation it’s important that I listen to my body and make sure I don’t push myself too early on the path to recovery.”
After playing in the early hours of Sunday in his third-round win over Dominic Koefer, the 20-time Grand Slam champion signaled his return after a long match that ended at 12:45 a.m. local time.
Federer underwent two knee surgeries in 2020 and is targeting a ninth Wimbledon title later this month on his favorite grass court surface.
“I’m thrilled to have three games under my belt,” Federer said. “There is no greater feeling than being back on the court.”
French Open tournament director Guy Forget said: “The Roland Garros tournament is sorry for the return of Roger Federer, who put up an incredible fight last night.
“We were all delighted to see Roger back in Paris, where he played three high-level matches. We wish him all the best for the rest of the season.”
Federer, turning 40 on August 8, defeated Koefer 7-6 (7-5) 6-7 (3-7) 7-6 (7-4) 7-5 and Matteo Berrettini on Monday. were about to play. Made it to the quarter finals.
“I don’t know if I’m going to play or not,” said the 20-time Grand Slam winner after the win over Koefer.
“I have to decide whether to continue. Is it too risky to put pressure on the knee? Is it a good time to rest?
“Every match I have to reevaluate the situation and see where I wake up the next morning and how my knee is doing.
“It could be even more true after a match until tonight.”
‘You gotta love it’
A one-night curfew due to COVID-19 restrictions ensured that the 15,000-capacity court at Roland Garros was without fans for Philippe Chattier’s match against Federer.
Federer said, ‘All the matches I have played since the injury are information for the rest of the season.
“It gives me real pleasure to be able to play three hours and 30 minutes at a high level against a very good player. It shows I’m on the right track.”
Three-time Grand Slam winner Andy Murray, who has suffered his fair share of injury problems, said watching Federer play was inspiring and a testament to the Swiss star’s love for tennis.
Murray tweeted, “Inspirational to see Federer playing at 12:30 at the age of 39 after two knee surgeries in an empty stadium. do what you like.”
Federer replied: “Thank you Sir Andy, the feeling is mutual. You gotta love it. See you on the grass.”
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