Roger Federer is finally back to competitions in Stuttgart after he skipped the entire clay court season.

The Swiss Legend has been (unfairly) criticized by some tournament directors for this decision. During a recent interview, Roger explained why he took that decision and he didn’t miss the chance to also hit back at some of his detractors.

Why I didn’t play the clay court season. FEDERER

The world no.2 commented

“There is freedom of expression, anyone can say what they want! I do not agree with those who say I should just play.

I have high standards, I want people to see the best Roger Federer play on clay too. I’m fine, but I need preparation so that I can keep up with everyone. People sometimes forget that it’s not so simple.

I’ve been on tour for almost twenty years, playing it fully for 17 years from January to November! Not like Hewitt or Roddick, who sometimes miss a season because the journey was too far.

My injury made it clear: if I stay longer on the tour, and one would think that this is better for the tour, I have to take breaks.

I understand the frustration of some tournament directors, even those for whom I have already done a lot. But I also think they could protect me and say: ‘Roger is free to decide! Sometimes the criticism goes a bit too far.’”