• ATP Tour

Federer: It's too early for me to retire

ESPN staff
May 24, 2013

Roger Federer has dismissed claims that he is ready to hang up his racket.

The 31-year-old has limited tour appearances in recent years in a bid to ensure he is as fit as possible for the grand slams.

And having won at least one of the four majors every year since his breakthrough in 2003, including a record-equalling seventh Wimbledon title last year, the world No. 3 insists he has no intention of giving up creating more memories.

"I want to relive those moments over and over again," he said. "As long as I enjoy playing, why would I stop doing something I enjoy doing?

"[If I retired] it would be way too early and I'd love to do this for a really, really long time.

"Unfortunately it all comes to an end at one point, but I still think I can compete at the highest of levels so we'll see how things go - hopefully starting with a good week [at the French Open]."

Federer had previously come under fire from an Italian journalist, who claimed that the Swiss star's health was being questioned by certain commentators after his average first serve dipped to around 108mph in last week's Rome Masters final defeat to Rafael Nadal.

"[Some players] serve 140 wide," Federer replied. "I'm not going to be that guy. I need to work my points differently. I don't know if these people have ever seen me play before but they should know that the radar doesn't always tell the story. Ask Rafa if he thought I served slower. He'll give you the answer."

Federer will benefit from Andy Murray's withdrawal from the French Open, which begins on Sunday, by moving up to second seed at Roland Garros.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
Close