Roger Federer Illness: Updates on Tennis Star's Status and Return

Tennis superstar Roger Federer is suffering from a stomach virus that forced him to pull out of the Miami Open. It's unclear when he'll return to the court. 

Continue for updates.

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Federer Withdraws from Miami

Friday, March 25

Shandel Richardson of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel reported Federer won't play in the Miami Open due to a stomach virus:

"

I am very sorry that I have to pull out of the Miami Open with a stomach virus. I feel bad for the tournament and the fans as I have rarely ever had to withdraw at such short notice. I have not felt great for a few days and unfortunately it got worse in the last 24 hours. I was really excited to have my comeback in Miami but I am in no condition to play. I tried warming up this morning but it was clear that I could not compete.

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This is another setback for Federer. He suffered a torn meniscus following the 2016 Australian Open and underwent surgery that forced him to miss the World Tennis Tournament in Rotterdam and the Dubai Championships. However, this illness is unlikely to limit his effectiveness moving forward, 

There is no doubt Federer is one of the best players in tennis history, if not the best. His 17 Grand Slam titles is a record high for men's tennis, and he continues to compete with much younger players at a top level.

Federer will be 35 in August, and it is fair to wonder whether his age is finally catching up with him. 

There were even rumors before the 2016 Australian Open that he was nursing an injury, although he played and reached the semifinals. While he lost to the eventual champion Novak Djokovic in four sets, his run was testament to his durability and longevity.

While this isn't an injury setback, it does hinder his return from knee surgery and could hamper his preparations for this summer's French Open.