TennisNH

Roger Federer's comeback at Qatar Open ended by Nikoloz Basilashvili

11-Mar-2021 22:53:40 | Guardian

• Returning Swiss player exits 3-6, 6-1, 7-5 in quarter-finals
• ‘Back-to-back three-set matches … that’s a step forward’

Roger Federer’s comeback from injury ended in the quarter-finals of the Qatar Open when he was beaten in three sets by Nikoloz Basilashvili, before the Swiss pulled out of the upcoming ATP 500 event in Dubai.

On Wednesday, Federer, 39, overcame Britain’s Dan Evans on his return to court after 14 months out with a knee problem. However the 20-times grand slam champion was unable to secure a second win in as many days as Georgia’s Basilashvili completed a 3-6, 6-1, 7-5 victory.

Related: The long wait for Roger Federer's return is a reminder to cherish him | Tumaini Carayol