Roger Federer withdrew from the ATP World Tour Final Sunday due to a back injury. Federer was scheduled to face Novak Djokovic, but decided to withdraw from the match after coming to the realization his back was not fit enough to compete.
Roger Federer withdraws from ATP Final with back injury
Federer’s bow out brings an anticlimactic conclusion to the ATP World Tour Final.
Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports
The 33-year-old personally announced his decision to those in attendance at the O2 Arena in London, explaining that he was not “match-fit”, via the BBC:
“I’m sorry I’m not fit to play,” he said. “I hope you understand. I wanted to come out personally and explain.
”I did everything I could. I took pain-killers, had rest until the very end, but I just cannot compete at this level with Novak.
“At my age it would’ve been a risk.”
Federer also posted a message on his Facebook profile, further elaborating on his withdrawal:
I am sorry to announce that I cannot play the finals tonight vs. Novak. I hurt my back late in the match yesterday against Stan. I am very disappointed and I hope to be feeling better soon.
It’s been an extremely difficult decision because I love playing in London and the ATP World Tour Finals have been an absolute highlight of my career. Unfortunately, my back problem does not allow me to play right now. I hope all tennis fans and those involved in the event will understand.
Federer defeated Stan Warinka Saturday, 4-6, 7-5, 7-6 (8-6).
Djokovic has now won the last three ATP Finals. While the crowd at the O2 Arena won’t be able to watch a championship match, they will get to see Djokovic, as he will take on Andy Murray in an exhibition match.
See More:
