As disappointing as the fact may be, a reality of life is that time stops for no one. Over the past year, tennis fans across the world have experienced that reality with all-time great Roger Federer. This year's events at Wimbledon mark one year since Federer last competed, and the first time in a quarter century that he is unranked by the ATP.
ATP rankings award points based on performances in the last 52 weeks. Since it has now been a full year since Federer's last appearance, he was awarded zero points in the ATP's latest rankings update. Federer was previously ranked 97th.
Federer made a historical impact on the sport during his 25-year streak. He had been ranked every week since making his professional debut at 16. At one point, he held the record for most consecutive weeks ranked number one overall. In that time, he earned 103 career titles — the second most all time — including 20 singles grand slams.
The now 41-year-old icon is still on the road to a professional return. Following a quarterfinals loss at Wimbledon in 2021, Federer had right knee surgery for the third time in 18 months. In media conferences at this year's Wimbledon, Federer said currently plans for a return in October of this year and hopes to play at the next Wimbledon.
It's not always easy for tennis fans to agree, but it's easy to understand the sport is better when ROger Federer is healthy and competing. If the all-time great can get even close to his previous form, he'll be back in the rankings in no time.
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