Tennis legend, Roger Federer, has not played tennis in more than a year and like his army of fans, also eager for the Swiss superstar's return to action next month is Rafa Nadal. With his knee still bothering the 41-year-old in the waning years of his glittering career, Federer hasn't played since Wimbledon last year.

The 20-time Grand Slam singles champion is anticipated to make his comeback to the circuit in September when he pairs up with longtime adversary and friend Nadal to play doubles at the Laver Cup in London. The following month, he is slated to compete at the Swiss indoor tournament in Basel. “Of course, super excited to see Roger again on court,” Nadal, the winner of a men’s record 22 Grand Slam titles, told reporters on Friday ahead of the US Open.

“I hope he’s healthy enough to make that happen. Yeah, let’s see. Has been a long period of time without Roger on court, so I really hope that he can manage to be back. But let’s see.”

After three knee procedures in the previous two years, Federer hasn't participated in a competitive match since losing to Hubert Hurkacz in the Wimbledon quarterfinals in 2021. However, after going nearly 14 months without competing, the Swiss has maintained his position at the top of the list of tennis players in the world in terms of payment for the 17th consecutive year, demonstrating his popularity in the sport.

Given his recent knee issues, fans and experts are speculating as to how much longer Federer will continue playing tennis before deciding to retire. “The most important thing at this stage of his career is health and happiness, no?” Nadal said.

“If he’s healthy enough and happy enough to be back to the tennis tour, (it) will be amazing. If not, we just can say thanks to him for everything that he achieved. “I am confident that we will keep having Roger for a while. Yeah, I can’t wait to share team with him in the Laver Cup.”

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