The end of Roger Federer’s comeback tournament has come after two matches.
Federer, who made an encouraging return to tennis by beating Dan Evans in a high-quality three-setter on Wednesday at the Qatar ExxonMobil Open, lost to Nikoloz Basilashvili 3-6, 6-1, 7-5 during quarterfinal action on Thursday evening. The 39-year-old had a match point late in the third set but could not convert and ended up succumbing after one hour and 50 minutes.
“I’m happy with how I played today,” said Federer, whose Doha appearance marked his first time on tour since the 2020 Australian Open. “I’m happy with how I did yesterday. I’m happy I am back on the tour; I’m pleased I came here to Doha. So it’s a really, really positive return for me.”
Basilashvili saved match point at 4-5, 30-40 with a winning forehand approach shot, held for 5-5, and then earned a decisive break of Federer’s serve in the 11th game.
“It is unbelievable,” the Georgian assured. “He is one of the greatest of all time. To just play him means so much to me. I am really happy that he came back and is playing again. To win against him is a dream come true for me. He was always my idol and I am sure he is to many tennis players and fans. He is an unbelievable player, so I am extremely happy.”
Next up for Basilashvili is Taylor Fritz, who punched his ticket to the last four by beating Lorenzo Sonego, David Goffin, and Denis Shapovalov. The world No. 33 saved three match points against Goffin in round two and his victory over Shapovalov in the quarters avenged a heartbreaking five-set loss at the 2020 U.S. Open.
tough one, Fed