Roger Federer retirement prediction made by John McEnroe as icon casts doubt on comeback

Roger Federer's return to the tour could instead be a farewell, according to John McEnroe. The seven-time Grand Slam champion admitted the 40-year-old's comeback at his home tournament in Basel later this year may be the beginning of the end following Federer's third knee surgery.

Federer has been out of action for almost a year after undergoing his third knee surgery in the space of 18 months but will be making a comeback at the Laver Cup before his official return to the tour at the Swiss Indoors Basel in October. But McEnroe has now admitted he believes the tournament could mark the former world No 1's retirement instead of his comeback.

Addressing the 20-time Major champion's upcoming comeback, the American told Repubblica: "Five or six years ago he had already taken six months off, right? And he thought it was over, that there was no way to win another Grand Slam. And then he won it.

"Now, to do it again, it seems to be almost impossible, but you know... Roger said he will play in Basel. I have a feeling, but I could be totally wrong, that he will say goodbye to Switzerland, at his house."

JUST IN: Djokovic picks which musical instrument Federer and Nadal would be

Video: Halle Open: Federer defeats Tsonga to reach quarter final (Daily Express)

Madrid Open: Tsitsipas' stunning shot against Nadal

Canelo sets out conditions for world title shot against Usyk

Mayweather shows no sign of age as he trains in ring

Ben Stokes appointed England Test captain

F1 preview: A lap of the Miami Grand Prix

Hamilton 'excited and nervous' for first ever F1 race in Miami

Real Madrid v Man City: Match in pictures

Raducanu wins Laureus Breakthrough of the Year award

Interview with Jake Paul ahead of Amanda Serrano v Katie Taylor

Jake Paul