Tennis legend Rod Laver sent his well wishes to Roger Federer and struck an optimistic tone as he told fans “our great game will re-emerge” from the impact of the global coronavirus pandemic.
Tennis was rocked on Wednesday when Wimbledon announced the tournament was being cancelled due to the worldwide outbreak.
To put the cancellation into context, it is the first time since the Second World War that there will be no play at SW19.
Among the first to react to the news was Roger Federer, who said on Twitter he was “devastated” but insisted he would be back in 2021.
The Swiss star is recovering from knee surgery in February and earlier this week posted a video of himself performing trick shots at his home.
And Laver, who won the Wimbledon singles title four times, responded to the footage by wishing Federer and family well and sending a hopeful message to disappointed fans.
“You make it look easy Roger. Hope you and the family are well and safe,” Laver tweeted.
“Very sorry to see @Wimbledon cancelled today but this will pass and our great game will re-emerge. Looking forward to seeing everyone again.”
When tennis will actually ‘re-emerge’ remains far from certain.
In response to Wimbledon’s cancellation, the ATP and WTA extended the suspension of the season until July 13.
But with the number of Covid-19 cases continuing to rise, the global nature of tennis may mean the sport faces a longer wait than others to return.
This particularly applies to North America where the US and Canada are struggling to ‘flatten the curve’ and the death toll is rising every day.
The US Open is due to start on August 31 and officials at the USTA insist they are still planning for it to go ahead.
The statement read: “We understand the unique circumstances facing the All England Lawn and Tennis Club and the reasoning behind the decision to cancel the 2020 Wimbledon Championships.
“At this time the USTA still plans to host the US Open as scheduled, and we continue to hone plans to stage the tournament.
“The USTA is carefully monitoring the rapidly-changing environment surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, and is preparing for all contingencies.
“We also rely on the USTA’s Medical Advisory Group as well as governmental and security officials to ensure that we have the broadest understanding of this fluid situation.
“In all instances, all decisions made by the USTA regarding the US Open will be made with the health and well-being of our players, fans, and all others involved in the tournament.”
Federer’s Practice, Nadal’s Message: Tennis At Home Roundup
Your favourite players are all back at home, but they’re finding plenty of ways to stay active. From Roger Federer hitting against a wall to Rafael Nadal working out on the treadmill, find out how the biggest names in tennis are keeping busy.
Federer shared how he’s been staying in shape while practising social distancing.
Nadal encouraged his fans to keep a positive attitude.
Grigor Dimitrov found a unique way to continue working on his strength.
Kyle Edmund gave thanks to the frontline workers who are helping combat COVID-19 and urged everyone to stay at home.
Yuichi Sugita is sporting an unconventional training kit these days.
Lloyd Harris is taking his tennis to new heights.
Roberto Carballes Baena is still working hard on his fitness.
Aisam-Ul-Haq Qureshi helped donate food bags to those in need in his native Pakistan.
