The first Grand Slam event of the season is underway in Melbourne as some of the biggest names from the tennis realm are taking part in it. However, a slew of fans is quite emotional as they are missing the Swiss tennis legend, Roger Federer who previously announced his decision to move away from the court. The fans there in Melbourne Park have revealed that they are missing the 20-time singles Grand Slam champion at the Australian Open.

Talking about missing some of the biggest names in the tournament, fans also mentioned the American tennis legend, Serena Williams. The tennis community is quite overwhelmed with emotions because of Federer and Wiliams’ absence from the tour following their decision to move away from the court.

Fans are quite emotional as Roger Federer is not there at the Australian Open

The 20-time singles Grand Slam champion has previously declined an invitation to attend the Grand Slam event in Melbourne Park. While the Swiss Maestro was playing his farewell tournament, Tennis Australia reportedly tried to persuade the 20-time singles Grand Slam champion to attend the Australian Open. By declining their invitation, Roger Federer has upset his legion of adoring fans in the sporting community.

Notably, one of the fans named Angelica Ibarra has spoken for the entire tennis community when she opened up about being emotional because of Federer’s absence from the tournament. She said, “I’ve grown up seeing Roger play, so for me, tennis IS Roger and Roger IS tennis,” 

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This is not the first time when Federer will not be there at the Rod Laver Arena for the season’s first Grand Slam event. The former world No. 1 player also missed the previous season’s Australian Open as he was struggling with his injury woes. Consequently, his absence from the tour has made Ibarra “a bit emotional”.

Fans talked about another tennis legend’s absence from the tour

Another big name from the tennis realm, Serena Williams is not there in Melbourne for the first Grand Slam of the season. The American tennis icon’s absence has upset the entire tennis community since she previously played her farewell match in New York. Talking about her, Ibarra said, “I also like women’s tennis, and the Williams sisters aren’t here, as well.”

Not just Serena but Venus is also not there in Melbourne after she pulled out from the event due to an injury. The head of the women’s tennis tour, Steve Simon also lavished praise on Serena. He said, “Look, Serena Williams is irreplaceable. I mean, she’s an icon, both on and off the court”.

Do you think the up-and-coming talent of the current generation of players can replace these legends? Let us know in the comments section.

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