"I hope I can come back one more time" - Federer on his Wimbledon participation

Monday, 04 July 2022 at 09:00

Updated at Tuesday, 19 November 2024 at 14:30

byZachary Wimer

Roger Federer made a return to Wimbledon recently, even though not as a player, which was a bit bittersweet for many of his fans.

Federer is still currently an active player, and while there are many rumors that his retirement might be imminent, the Swiss Maestro remains an active player.

He was in London recently for the 2022 Wimbledon Championships, albeit unlike last year, not in a player’s kit but rather a suit as he was one of the champions that was part of the champions' presentation during the 100-year celebration of the Centre Court.

As a player that played plenty of matches on the Centre Court, quite a few iconic ones, Federer was one of the focal points of that celebration. It was a bit odd for him as he admitted during his brief address to the crowd that he generally comes there as a player.

It’s very likely, though, that he will be coming more in roles like this in the future. However, he still hopes to play one more time at the event. He confirmed that as well, but it seems unlikely after he spent a full year away from the ATP Tour.

"I’ve been lucky enough to play a lot of matches here. It feels awkward to be here in a different type of role. This court has given me my biggest wins and my biggest losses."

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"I hope I can come back one more time. I miss being here. I didn’t think it would take this long to come back; this year has been rough on me. I didn’t know if I should make the trip, but I’m happy to be standing here today."

"2001 [stands out] against Sampras [Federer beat the American legend to end his title defence]; and then in 2003, against Mark Philippoussis [to win his first title]. You [Sue Barker, who was speaking Federer] remember what that meant to me [the Swiss cried during his winner's speech]."

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There was hope that he would be playing this year, but it didn’t happen. For now, a 0-6 set he played against Hubert Hurkacz last year remains the last set he played at Wimbledon.