'Not so sure': Tennis analyst's brutal truth bomb for Roger Federer

Tennis analyst Greg Rusedski has given a blunt outcome of Roger Federer’s chances of another Grand Slam when he returns to the Tour after a long-hiatus in 2020.

Federer has been out of action since the Australian Open where he lost to Novak Djokovic in the semi-final.

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The 20-time Grand Slam champ also announced during the coronavirus pandemic lockdown he would be taking the rest of 2020 off after undergoing a second arthroscopic procedure on his right knee.

Despite fears Federer might not return at the age of 39, the 20-time Grand Slam champ allayed doubt from fans and confirmed he is set to make a return at the 2021 Australian Open.

Federer even posted a photo of him training in his home base in Switzerland.

But leading tennis analyst Rusedski doubts Federer will be pushing for a Grand Slam at the age of 39 and after such a long lay-off.

“For me he’s looking at Wimbledon, he thinks he can win that again, and Olympic Gold, the only thing he hasn’t done in his career,” he said to Tennis365.

“Australia I think is going to be a big ask as he has not played tennis for so long.

“Can he play well? Of course he can. Can he win Slams? I’m not so sure.”

He claimed the next generation coming up, which could be seen with Daniil Medvedev and Dominic Thiem both defeating Novak Djokovic and Rafa Nadal at the ATP Finals, will make it harder for the 39-year-old to compete.

Federer wants Aus Open return

One factor working against the Swiss maestro is the uncertainty surrounding the Australian Open.

Tennis Australia boss Craig Tiley has responded to reports the Australian Open could be delayed until as late as March or April.

Aussie tennis commentator Brett Phillips revealed on SEN radio on Saturday that the event will almost certainly be delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

But Tiley on Sunday released a statement saying TA was “doing everything we can to finalise the summer of tennis as soon as possible”.

“Our intention is to deliver a summer in conditions that allow the players to prepare and perform at their best and the fans to enjoy their efforts - all in an environment that is safe for all concerned,” he said.

“We are working closely with the Victorian Government on a plan that takes into account the needs of the players, fans, our partners and staff, and is of major benefit to the Victorian and Australian economies.

“We are continuing our urgent talks with local health authorities regarding quarantining and bio-security requirements and are confident we will have decisions soon.”

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