Roger Federer withdraws from Dubai Championships after exit in Qatar
What's the story
Swiss maestro Roger Federer has pulled out of the upcoming ATP 500 event in Dubai in order to extend his training. The world number six confirmed his decision after getting knocked out of the Qatar Open. Federer lost to world number 42 Nikoloz Basilashvili after winning his comeback match at the Doha event. Here are the further details.
Development
I have decided to go back and train: Federer
"It's been great to be back on the @atptour, loved every minute playing in Doha once again," Federer wrote in a tweet. "A big thank you to the best and loyal team that helped me get here. I've decided it's best to go back to training and as a result, I've decided to withdraw from Dubai next week."
Twitter Post
Here is what he tweeted
It’s been great to be back on the @atptour , loved every minute playing in Doha once again. 🙌🏼
— Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) March 11, 2021
A big thank you to the best and loyal team that helped me get here. 🙏🏼
I’ve decided it’s best to go back to training and as a result, I’ve decided to withdraw from Dubai next week. 🏋🏽 pic.twitter.com/zp65Jt832n
Information
Basilashvili won 3-6, 6-1, 7-5 against Federer
At the Qatar Open, Basilashvili recovered from a set down to end Federer's comeback appearance at the ATP tour. The Georgian earned a 3-6, 6-1, 7-5 victory, having saved seven of 10 break points, including a match point at 4-5 in the decider.
Surgery
A couple of surgeries ruled him out of 2020 season
Last year, Federer underwent a keyhole surgery on his knee. Eventually, a follow-up operation ruled him out of the 2020 season. He also hinted at announcing retirement following his second knee surgery. Federer still continued his quest of returning to the tour. However, he couldn't recover in time for the Australian Open, thereby opting out of it.
Return
Federer recently returned to the ATP tour
Federer made a successful return to the ATP tour (Doha) after undergoing major surgeries. He won the opener against Britain's Dan Evans before suffering a defeat to Basilashvili. This was his first tournament since a semi-final loss to Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open in January 2020. Notably, Federer had already stated that he will skip the Miami event later this month.