Roger Federer's real reason for skipping Australian Open 2021 revealed and it's not injury

Roger Federer left many hearts broken when he announced late last year that he would not be participating in upcoming Australian Open 2021. After hinting at a possible return if Australian Open 2021 dates worked in his favour, Swiss Maestro tracked back on his promise by citing need for furr rehabilitation of his knee. However, an explosive revelation by Andre Sa, he of player liaison at Tennis Australia, may change fans' views on Federer's decision to sit out Grand Slam.

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Roger Federer's wife reason behind his Aus Open snub

Roger Federer fans may be left somewhat disappointed after a statement from Andre Sa, he of player liaison at Tennis Australia, who revealed that Federer may not have disclosed entire truth about why he chose to pull out from Australian Open 2021. Federer's decision, announced on December 28, through his agent Tony Godsick hinted strongly at fact that 39-year-old was still not feeling fit enough to take on best of best after his two knee surgeries early last year. However, according to Sa, this was just a smokescreen to hide  real reason behind Federer's reluctance to make journey Down Under.

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Talking to Brazilian sports channel, Band Sports, Sa revealed that he h h numerous discussions about tournament with Federer before latter announced his withdrawal. He claims that " main reason [for withdrawal] was quarantine". Explaining furr, Sa said that Federer's two options for quarantine were that he could eir come along and spend 5 weeks without his family (as most players will choose to do) or come with his family but have m stay in hotel room for all 14 days before y are allowed out.

While players are allowed to leave ir rooms for up to five hours of supervised practice, this privilege is not extended to families. With four young kids, it seems like this was simply too much to ask of Federer and his wife, Mirka. "He could go out, train and come back, but family couldn't. Mirka did not approve idea," Sa said. Defending his choice, Federer reportedly told Sa, "Dude, 39, four kids, 20 grand slams. I'm no longer at stage to be away from my family for five weeks". 

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Federer injury update and Federer ATP ranking

Considering that tournaments may have quarantine periods for some time still, statement may also spell trouble for 20-time Grand Slam champion's future in game. Federer has not played since his Australian Open semi-final loss to Djokovic in January of 2020. Despite this, a number of events have gone in his favour and he has been able to maintain a high No.5 rank through year. Federer is said to be aiming for a comeback later in February. 

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Image Credits: AP