"Roger Federer will face reality check on return" says Mats Wilander

The last time Roger Federer made a comeback to tennis it proved much more difficult than everyone thought it would be. Federer played a few solid matches but overall he was easily overmatched by the best in the World and even at his strongest event at Wimbledon he was easily beaten by Hurkacz. The final set he played was even a bagel which showcased how tough it is really to come back.

Some would argue that Federer was still experiencing knee issues which is true but Mats Wilander believes the legend is in for a reality check once he does come back despite being fully healthy. Speaking to Eurosport, Wilander said:

"I think it's possible for him to come back. I think if he keeps saying it himself, he obviously has his mind set on coming back."

Wilander has no question about Federer's desire to come back but he can't see a reality in which Federer is able to hang with players like Medvedev and Zverev who are emerging:

"I think the bigger problem to me is that these guys are getting really, really good. (Alexander) Zverev and (Daniil) Medvedev are the guys pushing behind, they are playing huge games of tennis. And of course, Federer has his serve but how big a weapon is a Roger Federer serve compared to let's say a Zverev or Medvedev serve? I think that's going to be the reality check."

The Swede finished off with:

"I don't think that Roger Federer will play too many matches on Tour. He realizes that he does still have a chance to win - maybe not a Grand Slam, maybe not a final - but three or four matches. I think it's worth it for him to come back in his own mind. I don't think he will know until he steps on the court for at least a two- or three-set match against the likes of Zverev and Medvedev."