Italian Open: Roger Federer withdraws from Rome QF
Roger Federer withdrew from the Internazionali BNL d’Italia ahead of his quarter-final against eighth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas on Friday because of injury to his right leg.
Four-time runner-up at the Foro Italico in Rome, Federer, reached in the last eight by saving two match points in the third set tie-break of Thursday night’s win against Croatian Borna Coric.
He won by 2-6, 6-4, 7-6 (9/7), advancing to the quarterfinal.
"You've got to be kidding!" 😳😱🔥🙌 #Federer's show is taking place at Centrale Stadium! #ibi19 pic.twitter.com/bKxRtvVI9J
— Internazionali BNL d'Italia (@InteBNLdItalia) May 16, 2019
Tsitsipas will play either defending champion Rafael Nadal or Fernando Verdasco for a place in the final.
Federer also made the announcement official by taking it to social media.
Federer wrote: “I am disappointed that I will not be able to compete today. I am not 100 percent physically and after consultation with my team, it was determined that I not play. Rome has always been one of my favourite cities to visit, and I hope to be back next year”.
It was going to be the first appearance of the 37-year-old in the Italian capital since 12 May 2016 because he skipped the 2017 and 2018 clay-court swings.
The next scheduled tournament for Federer to compete in is the season’s second Grand Slam event, Roland Garros, which starts Sunday 26 May.
Currently the world no. 3 on ATP ranking, Federer has not played at Roland Garros since 2015.
It’s been a disappointment for Federer fans but they are also concerned about his health and fitness.
Get well soon, @rogerfederer 🙏 pic.twitter.com/4kKVwDglcP
— ATP Tour (@atptour) May 17, 2019
Unfortunately, King Roger had to withdraw from the tournament due to an injury to his right leg. We wish him a fast recovery. Thank you for the incredible emotions.
👉 https://t.co/Z1JhSVjanJ#ibi19 #tennis #Federer pic.twitter.com/wH79E3hVUx— Internazionali BNL d'Italia (@InteBNLdItalia) May 17, 2019
Be well, be fit, vibrantly healthy and in top form for what matters most: The Grand Slams! Looking forward to your #102 win!
— Diane Talbot (@noneedlefillers) May 17, 2019
You're a #legend a true fighter, champion in life & that sets you apart from the league. #Respect for you #RogerFederer!! I know you will bounce back with another grandslam title for sure 🎾 🏆
— Saksham Korde (@Saksham_Korde) May 18, 2019
"The fan reaction and crowd energy during my matches yesterday remind me exactly why I am still competing on the ATP Tour". Numero 1 #RogerFederer #Federer https://t.co/nd5zVrFXFT
— Francesco Sessa (@fra_sessa) May 17, 2019
Oh boy! #RogerFederer had to retire from the #ItalianOpen due to injury. I really hope he does not jeopardize his grass court chances by opting for the clay court tournaments this season.
— LEENA (@LeenaGS) May 17, 2019
