Many tennis fans were thrilled when rumors of Federer playing at the Australian Open leaked but it was never feasible and it was just a rumor.
They were firmly dispelled by Federer's coach Ivan Ljubicic who admitted that Federer was unlikely to play at the event with his recovery being a slow and meticulous one. Not long after that, it became apparent that Federer won't realistically return until the midpoint of the 2022 season with even Wimbledon in doubt. Whether Federer makes it in time for his favourite event remains to be seen but in a recent interview with Sky Sports Federer gave a brief update.
He said:
"My wish is to play tennis at the highest level again. One step at a time. I don't want to rush it. I am walking again, soon I will start driving again."
As noted above, Federer is back to walking without a cane which was something that bothered many fans when they saw it. After the Laver Cup, Federer was spotted in Paris during Fashion Week but he was sporting a walking cane which got many wondered. He does not need it anymore and he will slowly make his way towards the tennis court while also making sure not to rush it.