Craig Tiley backs Roger Federer to come back in 2022

The 20-time Major champion Roger Federer will not compete at the Australian Open in February, missing the season's first Major for the first time since 1999!

The 39-year-old hasn't played since the Australian Open this January, reaching the semi-final in Melbourne but struggling with a knee injury ever since to experience the shortest season in a career. Federer underwent two surgeries in February and May, hitting the practice court again in October and doing his best to recover in time for the Australian Open.

The Swiss went to Dubai a week ago with his coach Ivan Ljubicic, testing his name but still deciding to take more time and skip the season's first Major event in Melbourne.

The Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley said that Roger is disappointed that he has to skip Melbourne, feeling optimistic about seeing the Swiss in the 2022 draw.

"In the end, Roger ran out of time to get himself ready for the rigors of a Grand Slam, and he's very disappointed he won't be coming to Melbourne in 2021. The Australian Open has always held a special place in his heart - remember it was Roger who first called the Australian Open the 'happy Slam.' We wish him all the best as he prepares for his comeback later in the year, and look forward to seeing him in Melbourne in 2022," Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley said.