Federer factor may be cause of fan apathy

The injury absence of Roger Federer and the first-round exit of Serena Williams could be partly to blame for the reduced crowd number at the current edition of Wimbledon.

Eurosport’s Mats Wilander pointed out the possible cause with attendance figures trailing by around 4,000 fans per day through the gates of the All England Club.

Official figures for the first three days of play show around 38,500 visitors per day entering a venue which can hold 42,000 around the grounds.

“I thought it was pretty much full every day since I’ve been here since the early 80s,” former Grand Slam champion and current commentator Wilander said.

“But, I’m not sure what you put that down to, to be honest.

“Obviously something can have to do with Roger Federer not playing, Serena Williams going out early, but yeah, I’m not sure. That’s obviously a concern.”

Federer, 40 with eight Wimbledon trophies,, is not expected back on a court until the autumn as he rehabs multiple knee problems;

Seven-time winner Williams, who last played a Tour match one year ago, was busted out in the opening round, losing to French No. 115 Harmony Tan.