Roger Federer’s fans may not see their tennis hero in the Dubai courts next week. The all time Grand Slam singles champion has been complaining of a back pain that might pull him down in the next several days. His match on March 6-8 could have been the event to look forward to since it would be Federer’s first-round match in the Davis Cup since 2004.
But health is still wealth. Federer wanted to ensure that his physical condition should be in full condition before he gets back to join the rest of the events for this year.
Since February 1, the Swiss player hasn’t been playing a competitive match. He had a teary-eyed defeat against Rafael Nadal in the Australian Open final. If he had won the game, he could have tied the record of Pete Sampras in earning 14 Grand Slam single championship titles.
On the other hand, Rafael Nadal would similarly miss the Dubai tournament because of a right leg injury. Nadal does hope to play for Spain in the Davis Cup which he unfortunately missed playing the last time.
Federer find it rather difficult to withdraw from the tournament because it may mean missing the opportunity to help his country advance to the next round of the Davis Cup. U.S. Captain, Patrick McEnroe shared the same sentiment but emphasizing on the fact that the match will not be as exciting without him.
Tickets of the U.S.-Switzerland competition sold out like hot cakes in less than an hour in January.