Roger Federer fans furious with Uniqlo decision: Statement released
ROGER FEDERER fans in Switzerland are fuming at a decision from Uniqlo not to sell their branded tennis gear in the country.
Roger Federer agreed a 10-year sponsorship deal with Uniqlo in 2018 worth £227m.
It saw the 20-time Grand Slam champion end his long-standing association with Nike.
Tennis fans had for years bought Federer-embossed Nike clothing, induing his own range of RF gear.
But supporters in his home nation of Switzerland have been unable to buy Uniqlo tennis gear.
Unfortunately, no deliveries can be made to Switzerland
According to Swiss outlet SRF, fans of the tennis superstar are angry with the Japanese clothes producer for not selling their wares in Switzerland.
And Uniqlo have explained why they have so far not ventured into the country.
“Unfortunately, no deliveries can be made to Switzerland,” they said in a statement.
“Among other things, there are tax-related reasons that prevent our marketing department from considering a current market expansion into Switzerland.
“If this situation changes, this will be published on our website or newsletter.”
The report also speculates whether or not Roger Federer knows his gear is not being sold in his home country.
The Swiss maestro is currently competing in Dubai as he chases a 100th ATP title.
He is not scheduled to play competitive tennis in Japan this year, although that may change in 2020.
Dubai 2019: Federer 'happy' to play Fucsovics in quarter-finals
Spending around £27m a year on Federer’s sponsorship yet not selling clothing to his home fans may seem surprising.
But the Japanese brand are hopeful Federer will compete at the Olympic Games in Tokyo next year - an outing that would certainly boost their own branding home and abroad.
Fast Retailing, who own Uniqlo, saw their share price rise 1.9 per cent on the day they announced Federer’s agreement.
As for Nike, who ‘lost’ Federer last year, their share price dropped 1.7 per cent following the announcement.