Switzerland Forfeit ATP Cup 2020 as Roger Federer Announces Withdrawal Due to Family Reasons

Roger Federer has withdrawn from the newly formed ATP Cup 2020 in Australia, which is scheduled in January next year as he sites the reason to spend some more time with his family.

The Swiss maestro wants to take some extra time off ahead of the first Grand Slam of the season in Melbourne as he announced in a statement that he will be playing at the Australian Open 2020.

“It is with great regret that I am withdrawing from the inaugural ATP Cup event,” said Federer as quoted by Tennis Australia.

The 20-time Grand Slam champion suggested that it was a tough decision for him when he confirmed his participation at the inaugural ATP Cup as it meant that he could spend less time with his family. However, he now decides that two extra weeks at home will be beneficial for his family and his game.

“When I entered the event last month, it was a really difficult decision because it meant less time at home with the family and a fully intense start to the season,” Federer added.

He said: “After much discussion with both my family and my team about the year ahead, I have decided that the extra two weeks at home will be beneficial for both my family and my tennis.”

Roger Federer further apologized for pulling out of the ‘most exciting and new event’ on the ATP Tour but expected that everyone would understand his decision for not participating at the ATP Cup.

“It pains me to not be a part of the most exciting new event on the calendar, but this is the right thing to do if I want to continue to play for a longer period of time on the ATP Tour,” he said.

“I am sorry for any inconvenience or disappointment my withdrawal may cause for the fans, but I hope you can understand why I made it. For my Australian fans, I look forward to seeing you all at the Australian Open, fresh and ready to go,” the 38-year-old concluded.

The Swiss maestro had committed to lead Switzerland in the 10-day event, which consists of 24 teams. With Stan Wawrinka also ruled out, Federer’s decision to withdraw means Switzerland can no longer take part in the nation-based event, which will take place from 3rd January 2020 to 12th January 2020.

After Switzerland’s withdrawal, six more countries will now qualify, based on the world rankings of their top players. The six additional countries will be added after the second entry deadline on 13th November 2019.

The $15 million dollars ATP Cup will be hosted in Brisbane, Perth, and Sydney. Eighteen countries qualified for the tournament after a first-round deadline in September, with hosts Australia given a wildcard spot.