Roger Federer comeback on track as agent reveals Swiss icon is keen to have a crack at Wimbledon 2023

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Roger Federer takes the applause

Roger Federer remains on course to return to action during the second half of the 2022 season with his agent Tony Godsick saying the Laver Cup is likely to be his comeback event.

Twenty-time Grand Slam champion Federer has not played any competitive tennis since his quarter-final exit from Wimbledon last year as he required a third operation on his troublesome knee.

Having first injured his knee during the 2020 Australian Open, the Swiss also missed the bulk of that season and the beginning of the 2021 campaign.

The 40-year-old confirmed earlier this year that he is earmarking a return in September and he has posted some encouraging updates via social media.

Godsick, who founded the Laver Cup with Federer, says they sticking to the original date, but the veteran could return earlier if his rehabilitation goes well.

“He’s exactly where he wants to be but unfortunately it takes time. He’s going to play Laver Cup and Swiss Indoors,” he told Standard Sport.

“Could he add a tournament before then? Maybe yes but more likely after that. He doesn’t want to commit to anything too soon before having to pull out. But the Laver Cup is enough time that, if all goes well with rehab events, he can get back for.”

After undergoing two knee operations in mid-2020, Federer returned in March last year and then played five tournaments before calling an early end to his campaign.

Godsick added: “He won’t rush back this time. He will have to be 100% and know he’s 100% and that’s why he’s taking his time doing heavy rehab and training. It’s not just when knee feels good but building up the muscles and getting lungs back. I know he’s encouraged where he is.

“I don’t want to be the doctor but what I hope for him is to able to have a great rehab this summer, play some in the fall and give a nice shot at 2023, and then see what happens. I haven’t talked to him about that.”

Asked about Wimbledon, Godsick added: “It was a great effort last year on one leg. And I think he’d like another Wimbledon. That place has been incredibly special to him.”

Roger Federer

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