Posted Sep 15, 2022, 6:18 PM
“The Laver Cup next week in London will be my last ATP event,” Roger Federer announced earlier today on social media, through an emotional video. A news that shakes the world of tennis, marked by the exemplary rise of the Swiss player.
However, it is not unexpected for his biggest fans: He had not played for almost a year because of an injury and, as the fans feared, it is his physical condition that pushes him to to retire. “As many of you know, the last three years have presented me with challenges, in the form of injuries and surgeries. I worked hard to get back to my best shape. But I know my body’s capabilities and limitations, and it sent me a clear message. I’m 41 years old. “, he says.
— Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) September 15, 2022
The dream of an entire generation
If Roger Federer is not the best tennis player in contemporary history, overtaken by his rivals, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic who have more major titles, he is still one of the most adored players around the world. .
Impulsive, quick to send his racket flying, Roger Federer began his career as the enfant terrible of tennis before winning his first title at only 23 years old, unlike many other young prodigies.
Roger Federer on July 5, 2021 at Wimbledon.Glyn KIRK/AFP
This success at Wimbledon in 2003 opens the door to a festival of rewards in all the biggest tournaments in the world. Roger Federer is the man of superlatives. He had a string of victories from 2003 to 2007, and even his defeats – like that of the Wimbledon final against Rafael Nadal in 2008 – are true demonstrations. Interrupted three times by the rain, facing a formidable opponent, Roger Federer delivers a match that remains in the annals for amateurs. Proof that it is not necessary to win to make an impression.
Persevering, the Swiss is on all terrains. After a six-month break due to injuries, he made his big comeback at the 2017 Australian Open. A coronation that confirms the determined character of the player, the second oldest to have won a Grand Slam title with more than 1,500 games . A longevity that makes his departure even more terrible for the international sports community.
A palpable emotion in the world of tennis
Tributes are multiplying to salute Roger Federer as the tennis world is barely recovering from the announcement of the retirement of another of its icons: Serena Williams.
Close to his community thanks to constant and worked communication (the player speaks three languages in addition to his Swiss German), but also to other players, his rivals who have become friends like Rafael Nadal, the future retiree leaves behind him many emotions. Wimbledon, from which he left eight times victorious, also wanted to thank him.
Roger,
Where do we begin?
It’s been a privilege to witness your journey and see you become a champion in every sense of the word.
We will so miss the sight of you gracing our courts, but all we can say for now is thank you, for the memories and joy you have given to so many. pic.twitter.com/VDWylKvW86
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) September 15, 2022
We still have one last opportunity to see the champion on the court during the Laver Cup which is to be held from September 23 to 25 and which Roger Federer’s management team has created. A great opportunity for the tennis player to leave in top form and with an intact passion for the art of the racket. “I will still play tennis in the future, of course,” he said in his statement. As obvious.
