'We would have loved to have Roger Federer in Miami,' said James Blake

Four-time Miami Open champion Roger Federer will not defend the title he won in Florida in 2019, deciding to take a rest after Doha and Dubai ahead of the clay season.

The Swiss hasn't played since January last year, struggling with a knee injury and undergoing two surgeries in February and May. In October, Federer returned to the practice court and has been working hard on a comeback, still eager to chase notable titles a couple of months before turning 40.

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Roger Federer withdraws from Miami Open and will not defend title

The Swiss couldn't get at 100% ahead of the Australian Open and will make a long-awaited return at the next week's ATP 250 event in Doha. If everything goes right, Roger will compete a week later in Dubai before taking a break from the court to charge batteries ahead of the clay swing.

The Miami Open tournament director James Blake was sad when he heard that Roger will not compete in Miami, although he understands the situation and that the Swiss had to deal with a severe injury. James described Roger as an incredible ambassador for the sport, wishing to see him playing as long as possible.

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"We certainly would have loved Roger to return to Miami to defend his title. However, as a former player, I understand that you need to travel and playing schedule to properly work your way back to 100% fitness when coming off an injury. Roger is an incredible ambassador for the sport; the longer he can play on tour, the better it is for all of tennis," James Blake said.