the world of tennis hails Roger Federer on his retirement – ​​Liberation

Did Roger Federer change tennis? A few moments after the announcement of the retirement of the Swiss, 103 titles including 20 Grand Slams, this is how the world of the yellow ball deciphers his extraordinary career. The organizers of his heart tournament, above all, Wimbledon, where he won eight times, ask: “Roger, where to start?” Personified on social networks, the London Grand Slam then responds: “It has been a privilege to witness your journey and see you become a champion in every sense of the word. All we can say is thank you, for the memories and the joy you gave to so many.” For its part, Roland-Garros tweeted: “tennis legend”, accompanied by a photo on Parisian clay, while the US Open launched a “Thank you Roger”like the legend Rod Laver, who gave his name to the flagship stadium of the Australian Open.

Among the former players, Juan Martin del Potro says words of love: “I LOVE YOU Roger, writes the Argentinian. Thank you for everything you have done for tennis and for me. Tennis will never be the same without you. Andy Roddick, another Grand Slam winner (the US Open), thanks his pet peeve “for shared memories. It has been an honor to share time and experiences on the most hallowed grounds of sport.”

‘Rafael wouldn’t have been as strong without Roger’

Twelve Grand Slam singles title Billie Jean King believes Federer “is the champion of champions. He has the most complete game of his generation and has captured the hearts of sports fans around the world with his incredible speed on the court and a powerful tennis spirit. He had a historic career with memories that will endure. We wish you the best as you continue your journey”. Martina Navratilova, another tennis star (18 majors in singles), talks about “magic”: “What a heartfelt message, full of love, life, hope, passion and gratitude. Exactly like the tennis that Roger played and that we loved so much. Thank you, thank you, thank you for all the magic.”

On RMC Sport, Toni Nadal, Rafa’s uncle and long-time coach, Federer’s best enemy for several years before Novak Djokovic invited himself into their battles, comments: “Rafael wouldn’t have been so strong without Roger Federer. He always had to raise his level. With Djokovic, everyone has improved the level of play of the others. It’s a very bad day for those who love tennis. I have a son who had an admiration for Federer, he was waiting for him to come back and now we know it’s his last match. He had the perfect combination of efficiency and class.