Roger Federer announced via his website today that he will not be defending his title at this week’s Gerry Weber Open in Halle, Germany:
“I sincerely apologise to the tournament organisers, my competitors, and my fans in Germany. I only hope they will understand that I still feel emotionally overwhelmed and exhausted by the incredible events of the past few days. It is hard for me to admit, but I simply cannot imagine giving my best effort in another tournament right away. I don’t want to risk injury if I am not 100% prepared. I need to rest and recuperate.”
I say it’s a good move for three main reasons:
- Emotional health: I’m still recovering from Roland Garros, so why shouldn’t Roger feel similarly drained?
- Physical health: Rest that back Roger, you’re going to need your serve at Wimbledon.
- Psychological advantage: Roger is riding a tidal wave of confidence, accolades and general good vibes – why add even a drop of doubt with a tight three-setter against Djokovic or Tsonga? Let them worry if they’re good enough to beat Federer on grass when it really counts.
What do you think?
Loading ...Besides top seeded Djokovic and Tsonga, who both won their first round matches, the strong field in Halle includes: Haas, Berdych, Kohlschreiber and Kiefer. Fernado Verdasco was knocked out of the tournament early by Germany’s Philipp Petzschner. The Gerry Weber Open is an ATP 250 level event on grass.
I had to laugh at Tsonga’s grass court strategy: “My game plan is to hit the ball as hard as I can.” (via Yahoo!Sports) Good luck with that, Jo!
Click here for the Gerry Weber Open website, which includes some (non-embeddable) videos.
The tournament will not be broadcast on television in the States – please share your live streaming links so we can watch the Djokovic vs. Tsonga final!
