By Ricky Dimon
Roger Federer’s knee injury will prevent him from competing in the upcoming BNP Paribas Open. Federer, who had to undergo minor surgery after getting hurt shortly after the Australian Open, announced his withdrawal from the Indian Wells Masters via social media late last week.
The 17-time Grand Slam champion, posted the following on Facebook: “The Rehab for my knee is going really well! I have now had a lot of great practices on the court and in the gym. As it is a long year, I don’t want to push it too hard and come back too soon. Thus, I will unfortunately not be able to make it back in time for the great event in Indian Wells but I do plan on playing in the desert next year. After consultation with my team, I have decided to enter the Monte-Carlo Rolex Masters. Thanks for the support and I will see you back on tour soon.”
Federer is 52-11 lifetime in Indian Wells with four titles (2004, 2005, 2006, 2012). He finished runner-up to Novak Djokovic in both 2014 and 2015. The Swiss also finished runner-up in doubles five years ago with Stan Wawrinka and they advanced to the semifinals in 2014.
Roger Federer of Switzerland reacts during his final match against Novak Djokovic of Serbia at the BNP Paribas Open tennis tournament in Indian Wells, California, USA, 22 March 2015. Djokovic defeated Federer. EPA/JOHN G. MABANGLO
Federer’s injury did not prevent him from attending the Academy Awards on Sunday night. The 34-year-old Swiss drank a shot of tequila and hobnobbed with Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova, among many other celebrities.
Milos Raonic is still recovering from an adductor tear that plagued him during a five-set Australian Open semifinal loss to Andy Murray. Raonic announced on Monday that he will not be able to partake in this weekend’s Davis Cup tie between Canada and France in Guadeloupe. The world No. 13 is “hopeful” to play in Indian Wells, but that sounds questionable at best.
“I am deeply saddened to not be able to join my team for the Davis Cup tie in Guadeloupe,” Raonic stated. “Davis Cup has always been and will continue to be a priority in my schedule. My body at this moment does not allow me to compete as the muscular tear I sustained in Australia has not completely healed.
“I will continue to rehab and try to be back on tour as soon as possible, remaining hopeful for the tournament in Indian Wells, California.”
Topics: 10sballs.com, Academy Awards, BNP Paribas Open, Indian Wells, Maria Sharapova, milos raonic, Oscars, Ricky Dimon, Roger Federer, Serena Williams, Tennis News