Roger Federer, no party in Basel: tennis legend’s message

Roger Federer still wants to process the emotions he experienced in London

The forfeit at the level of presence among the players at the Atp in Basel had been a foregone conclusion for a long time – since the official retirement from competition came after the unforgettable doubles match played alongside Rafa Nadal in the Laver Cup – but on Tuesday Roger Federer decided to make his absence official also at the level of presence in the stands.

The Swiss champion, therefore, will not celebrate in front of his fellow citizens. Federer’s explanation is in his response to the organizers of the tournament in his hometown, reported by the online portal of the Swiss newspaper ‘Blick’: “I thank the organizers of the tournament for the invitation,” he said, “Celebrating at my home would have a special flavor, but the date comes too early compared to London.

For Federer, then, there is still a need to metabolize the very strong emotions he experienced in late September at the O2 Arena. “I have wonderful memories of the tournament I played in my city,” added the racket legend. “I hope it remains among the most important tournaments on the Atp Tour.