“There Is a Lot at Stake”: Roger Federer Reveals Conversation With Novak Djokovic During the Coronavirus Break

20-time Grand Slam champion Roger Federer is playing no part in the tennis season as he is recovering from his knee surgeries. But the Swiss Master has been quite active off the court, indulging in various interviews, commercials, etc.

While visiting the headquarters of the famous coffee machine maker, Jura, Roger Federer sat down for an interview with  Schweizer Illustrierte. The Swiss master spoke about life during the pandemic, fitness, and tennis.

Roger Federer talked to Novak Djokovic about the survival of tournaments and players

Federer was asked about the recent controversies surrounding Novak Djokovic and about his last conversation with the world number one.

“About two months ago. But it was all about how and when tennis starts again. And how the Corona measures can be implemented at the tournaments. We are both on the 10-member players’ council of the tour. It’s about a lot, about the survival of tournaments and of professionals who continue to have their expenses.”

The pandemic break had serious implications on tournaments and the lower-ranked players. For most of the lower-ranked players, their primary source of income was cut. Moreover, tournaments lost a lot of sponsors, encountering huge financial losses.

Novak Djokovic has struggled with controversies

From the pandemic break to French Open 2020, Djokovic has had a tumultuous couple of months. First, he faced a lot of criticism for conducting the Adria Tour in June which resulted in four players, including Djokovic, testing COVID positive. However, this issue was quickly forgotten due to his impressive tennis at the Cincinnati Open, where he clinched his 35th Masters 1000 title.

Unfortunately, at US Open 2020, Djokovic again smacked his way into trouble after accidentally hitting the line judge with a spare ball. It was a 4th round tie and Djokovic was immediately disqualified from the Grand Slam.

Regardless, Djokovic didn’t let this affect his game in the next tournament as he won his 36th ATP Masters title at the Italian Open. Now, he is posing a real challenge to Rafael Nadal at French Open 2020. Needless to say, it has been an unusual time for Djokovic.

For Federer, a return to tennis is likely at next year’s Australian Open. In fact, the player is happy with his recovery and expects a triumphant return.

Read More: “Roger Will Be There”: Coach Confirms Roger Federer’s Presence at Australian Open 2021