Roger Federer given green light by ITF to play 2020 Olympics without prior Davis Cup appearance
Roger Federer has been given the go-ahead to play in the 2020 Olympics by the International Tennis Federation.
Federer has made no secret of his desire to once again represent Switzerland in Tokyo next year, but question marks have been raised over his eligibility due to him not playing much Davis Cup tennis in recent years.
Switzerland have not qualified for the Finals of the Davis Cup, set to be held in its new format for the first time in November, so Federer would have limited opportunities to tick that box before Olympic selection – a problem which also faces the injured Kei Nishikori.
That, though, will not be a problem for Federer, who meets a separate criteria.
“We have specific rules and this is one of the arguments that sets us apart from other competitions,” ITF President David Haggerty told EFE Agency.
“The Davis Cup is the qualifying round for the Olympic Games.
“In Kei [Nishikori’s] case, if he plays the first round next year, he will be eligible for the Games.
“In addition, Switzerland has the possibility of nominating Roger to be in Tokyo by a specific criterion: He has been a medalist in the past.”
Follow us on Twitter @T365Official and like our Facebook page.
Latest
-
WTA Tour
Charleston Open hand former No 1 wildcard to start her clay season
Wildcards were forthcoming for former world No 1 Caroline Wozniacki, world No 13 Beatriz Haddad Maia, and Charleston-native Shelby Rogers.
-
Tennis News
Former world No 1 weighs in on Iga Swiatek’s ‘aura’ as he makes ‘intimidating’ claim
“The more accomplishments Iga Swiatek has, the more intimidating it is to play her.”
-
WTA Tour
Naomi Osaka’s clay swing fills out with Rouen wildcard
Naomi Osaka gets Rouen wildcard to kickstart her clay swing.
-
WTA Tour
Danielle Collins balks at being asked to explain retirement
Danielle Collins has responded to those who question why she has decided to retire from tennis at the end of the current season.
-
Tennis News
‘Novak Djokovic’s problem is psychological’, assesses Roger Federer’s former coach
“Undoubtedly, ‘Nole’ must have fire inside, otherwise he is missing something.”
-
Tennis News
Daniil Medvedev discusses his popularity compared to Carlos Alcaraz as he offers a theory
“For me, the result is the most important, it’s more important than, let’s say, looking good on the court.”
-
Tennis News
Andy Roddick gives honest verdict on Novak Djokovic’s shock coaching split
“I was surprised. You don’t look to make moves in March or April. This has had to be a surprise to both of them.”
-
ATP Tour
Jannik Sinner makes revealing comment on his eyesight after Miami Open win
Jannik Sinner opened up on his use of contact lenses on court.
-
Tennis News
Martina Navratilova serves up a desperate verdict on Andy Murray’s comeback hopes
Andy Murray is likely to have to wait several days to learn how long he will be sidelined for by the ankle injury he suffered in Miami.
-
Tennis News
Jannik Sinner reveals he has been having Call of Duty sessions with Italian football hero
Jannik Sinner has had some high-profile gaming clashes with Italy’s No 1 goalkeeper.