By Chris Oddo | @TheFanChild | Tuesday, July 5, 2022
Novak Djokovic says he hopes Roger Federer can make a successful return to the tour, for the sake of tennis fans and himself.
The Serb had kind words for his fellow 20-time champion after both attended the Wimbledon Centre Court centenary on Sunday.
“I told him he’s loved by so many people, that he’s been greeted very nicely, and that he needs to come back so we can play at least one more time – like he said it himself,” Djokovic said. “We’ve all seen how special it was when he entered center court. Everyone was on their feet, everyone showed their love and respect towards him and he really is a legend in every aspect.”
40-year-old Federer surprised the crowd by showing up on Sunday for the celebration at Wimbledon. He said it felt “awkward” not being a player at SW19 this year.
"This court has given me my biggest wins and my biggest losses. I hope I can come back one more time," he added.
Djokovic said Federer’s return will benefit the sport greatly as a whole.
“Of course, he’s been one of my biggest rivals in my career and it’s been weird not seeing him participating in tournaments. He’s been struggling with injuries for the past few years and played only a couple of tournaments and, like he said, it was unusual seeing him here at Wimbledon in a different role. “I think it’s very important for the sport that players like him play as much as they can, because it brings a lot of attention and benefits all of us.”