Roger Federer Withdraws From Tokyo Olympics, Citing Knee Injury

Swiss tennis star Roger Federer confirmed his withdrawal from the Tokyo Olympics due to setbacks from a knee injury.

The 20-time Grand Slam champion made it to the quarter finals at this year's Wimbledon following knee surgery, but he ultimately decided his injury would hinder his ability to play in the Tokyo Summer Olympic Games.

In an announcement posted on Twitter Tuesday, Federer wrote: "During the grass court season, I unfortunately experienced a setback with my knee, and have accepted that I must withdraw from the Tokyo Olympic Games."

pic.twitter.com/ngIlD6MYew

— Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) July 13, 2021

He continued: "I am greatly disappointed, as it has been an honor and highlight of my career each time I have represented Switzerland."

Federer told his fans that he has already started rehabilitation from the injury and hopes to play again later in the summer.

"I wish the entire Swiss team best of luck and I will be rooting hard from afar," he said.

Federer is ranked number eight in the world by the Association of Tennis Professionals.

Newsweek reached out to the International Tennis Federation for comment.

This is a breaking story and will be updated as more information becomes available.

Day Nine: The Championships - Wimbledon 2021
Roger Federer announced Tuesday that a knee injury has prompted his withdrawal from the Tokyo Olympics. In this photo, Federer hits a backhand against Hubert Hurkacz of Poland in the quarter finals of the gentlemen's singles during Day Nine of The Championships - Wimbledon 2021. LONDON, ENGLAND - JULY 07. TPN/Getty Images