Where is Roger Federer? This is the question flying around the venue of the Madrid Open as the 17-time grand slam is yet to appear.
The uncertainty started on Sunday when a purposed media press conference involving the Swiss player failed to occur without there being an explanation. At first the missed press conference was nothing too worrying for the army of Federer fans at the Caja Magica, the venue of the Madrid Open. The bigger worry is his absence from a scheduled practice session on Monday morning.
The 34-year-old was scheduled to grace his presence at 11:30 (BST+1) on court 7. Federer was due to play a practice session with rising star Taylor Fritz. The intriguing session failed to happen after Fritz entered the court without Federer as a hitting partner.
There is yet to be any comment regarding Federer’s delayed absence from the venue and he is still in the draw. On the other hand, with no points to defend this week due to his early Madrid exit last year and the Rome Masters swift approaching, a Federer withdrawal is becoming more likely.
Rafael Nadal and Stan Wawrinka finalize their preparations
The ambiguity surrounding Federer’s appearance isn’t a concern to the fans of Rafael Nadal and Stan Wawrinka. Nadal is bidding to win his third consecutive title on clay after his double triumph in Monte-Carlo and Barcelona. The Spaniard will be bidding to become the first man in history to win the Madrid title five times.
French Open champion Wawrinka appeared relaxed and calm during his practice session at the Caja Magica. The 31-year-old is hoping to clinch his third title of the season after Chennai and Dubai.
Photo’s of both Nadal and Wawrinka in practice has been taken exclusively by ubitennis.net.
