Roger Federer fans all across were unhappy to learn about his hiatus from tennis until June 2020. Federer’s right surgery compelled him to take an elongated break from professional tennis. Upon hearing the news, just like all other tennis followers, Novak Djokovic was also astonished to learn about Federer’s surgery.

In Melbourne, Federer raised concerns about his pain in his groin. He also canceled his practice sessions before his semifinal match against Djokovic at Australian Open 2020.

Novak Djokovic on Roger Federer’s surgery

“It was a surprise to hear about Federer’s injury and surgery. I knew he was struggling with an injury in the Australian Open. But I think no one knew what the injury is and how serious it is. I don’t like to see anybody going through a process of surgery,” Novak Djokovic told the reporters in Dubai. 

In 2018, after having a tough time with his elbow, Novak underwent a surgery. That was the only surgery he has ever had in his thriving tennis career. And the same year, the Serb resurged on the ATP Tour by claiming Grand Slams and attaining the World Number one spot.

“I’ve been through that once and, hopefully, the last time in my life. I know that for doctors, that’s a routine-like procedure but it’s quite invasive. I know it also creates psychological trauma,” he added.

Djokovic spoke about the South African tennis icon Kevin Anderson, who recently revealed his right knee surgery. “I’m sad to see Roger and Kevin going through those kinds of procedures. I hope that they will be back very soon,” he continued.

Also, he feels that the sport of tennis is incomplete without the presence of the Swiss maestro Roger Federer. “Roger is Roger. This sport needs him,” Novak said.

Read More – Kevin Anderson Suffers a Major Setback in His Career

Federer will be missing out on hard-court tournaments in Dubai, Indian Wells, and Miami. Later, he will be absent from the European clay-court season.

Meanwhile, the top-seed in Dubai, Novak Djokovic will open against the Tunisian Malek Jaziri.