Roger Federer announced on Sunday, 20 January, that he would return to French Open action in May for the first time since 2015.
The tennis legend made the announcement immediately after he was halted by Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas in the fourth round, in his bid for a record-breaking seventh Australian Open title. Tsitsipas won the match 6-7 (11), 7-6 (3), 7-5, 7-6 (5).
“It’s a bit of a desire. I’m in a phase where I want to have fun and I’ve missed not doing it. I don’t feel it is necessary to have a big break again.”Roger Federer to French Open reporters
The 20-time Grand Slam champion missed the tournament in 2016 due to an injury and remained out of action on clay court since the last two seasons to concentrate on Wimbledon and the US Open.
Federer’s only title at the French Open came in 2009.
On Sunday, Federer lost for first time in the Australian Open since his loss to Novak Djokovic in the semi-final round in 2016. This is longest period since Federer’s maiden Grand Slam semifinal, final and title at 2003 Wimbledon that he hasn’t made it to the semis at four straight Grand Slams tournaments.
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