Roger Federer loses in the quarterfinals of the Qatar Open and calls the first tournament a “step” in 14 months

Roger Federer’s return to tennis ended in the quarter-finals of the Qatar ExxonMobil Open against Georgian opponent Nikoloz Basilashvili. Federer’s championship game ended when Basilashvili lost 3-6, 6-1, 7-5.

Federer showed that he is returning to form in his first tournament since he underwent two knee surgeries, although he took the first set in a fairly dominant manner. In the end, saving Basilashvili seven of his 10 breaks, including a 4-5 point decision, was too much for him to beat the Swedish international.

“He’s incredible. He’s one of the greatest of all time,” Basilashvili said in an interview on the court. For each ATP. “Playing with him means a lot to me. I’m happy to be back and playing again. Winning against him is a dream for me. He was always my idol and I’m sure he’s for a lot of tennis. Players and fans. He’s an incredible player, so I’m very happy. “.

Federer, meanwhile, said the competition is a “first step” toward a full recovery. It was the first time he had taken the judge in 14 months.

“Actually, I’m happy because I’ve been able to play three sets of games against the best players. That’s an important step forward for me,” Federer said. “Like I said, I’m still not 100%. I’m sorry, I see. From that perspective, (what’s) it’s important to be 100% on the grass court … I’m still building. So it’s an important step. I’m glad I felt today. mode on the court in general “.

The 39-year-old man wanted to return to the Australian Open, but his recovery was not at the time the tournament took place when he could compete at that level.