The hiatus began in March, with Federer already absent since he recovered from knee surgery.
Sunday will mark the first day of the French Open in its usual place on the tennis calendar – in March, though, it was rescheduled for September – and another grand slam, Wimbledon in July, was canceled.
“I am not training at the moment because I see no reason to be honest,” Federer told three-time French Open champion Gustavo Kuerten – who is raising funds for a coronavirus relief effort in his home country, Brazil – in a video interview
reported by Tennis.com.
“I am happy with my body now and I still believe that the return of the tour is far away,” the 38-year-old continued. “And I think it’s very important mentally to enjoy this break, after playing so much tennis.
“When I will return and have a goal to train, I think I will be very motivated.”
Federer is arguably tennis’
best supported player, and the prospect of competing without an audience doesn’t appeal to him.
“Most of the time when we practice, there is no one,” said the men’s 20-time grand slam record. “For us, of course, it is possible to play if there are no fans. But on the other hand, I really hope that the circuit can return to normal.
“And wait until the time is right, at least a third of the stadium or half full. But, for me, being completely empty when playing a big tournament is very difficult.”
Federer has been active on social media during the lockup, sparking public discussion about the merging of the male and female tour
with a tweet last month and start a
Instagram Live is funny with tennis rival Rafael Nadal.
Nadal, unlike Federer, has begun training, though only recently. The Spaniard will be favored to win the 20th major and Federer’s tie if the French Open is played as usual considering he has collected a record of 12 titles at Roland Garros.
The next grand slam is scheduled to become the US Open in August in New York, with organizers expected to announce in June if it will continue.
