The attention of the fans and the sports’ elite across the globe are watching one of the most poignant goodbyes to an athlete that tennis has ever known.
Since Roger Federer announced his retirement The game of guessing was played: when will Roger Federer play his debut and final match in the Laver Cup 2022? Who would he possibly pair up with him in doubles?
The Swiss master of the game gave the solution Wednesday afternoon at the London’s O2 Arena in a briefing with the media. This was his first press gathering since he took to social media earlier this week to share the news, which prompted an outpouring of applause for his dazzling career, well wishes , and sadness.
In actual fact, twenty-time Grand Slam winner — his contribution to tennis far surpasses even his numerous trophy awards — stated that he was hoping to win that Friday’s evening training session The O2 would mark the his last appearance onto the court as a professional.
And the 41-year-old hasn’t ruled out long-time opponent and acquaintance Rafael Nadal partnering him on Team Europe.
“For me it will be special to share the court with anybody, regardless,” Federer added. Federer who was last in action at the 2021 Wimbledon quarterfinals, where he faced the Polish Hubert Hurkacz, before being injured in the knee.
“It will be unique because I’ve not played tennis in many, many years.
“And I’m sure it’s going be a hysterical stadium, with incredible fans, and players from the team there. Of course the possibility of it being be Rafa I think it’s rather ironic that it will be me playing in my last game. Let’s see how it goes.”
It’s called Laver Cup deja vu if it happens.
The duo whipped players into frenzy after they played doubles at the first Laver Cup in Prague in 2017.
Their distinct styles have created many classics, while they played on the vast majority of tennis’s grandest venues.
“I think it could be quite a unique situation if it were to happen, for as long as we battled together to having always this respect for one another, the families, our coaching teams,” Federer said. Federer.
“We always got along really well.”
“For us both to be able to experience the same career that we’ve both experienced and then to emerge with a positive outlook and having an enjoyable relationship I believe that could be an important message and not just for tennis but to sports, and perhaps even to the world beyond. That’s why I think it’s a great idea.”
Roger Federer greets long-time rival and Team Europe teammate Novak Djokovic at the O2.
Roger Federer greets long-time rival and Team Europe teammate Novak Djokovic at the O2.
Federer is joined by Nadal, Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray, Casper Ruud and Stefanos Tsitsipas as Team Captain Bjorn Borg’s impressive team.
“It’s going to be a crazy week, but a good one,” said Federer who was a fan of Borg as a kid. “And the presence of Novak, Rafa and Andy on the scene is sure to add more. It’s almost like I arranged it that way, but I did not. I was really pleased that everyone was excited to participate.
“We haven’t seen Andy on our team and therefore getting Andy join the team will be a very memorable experience. I am sure of it, particularly considering what he’s been through with injuries. And then , I can see myself, too, and announcing (my my retirement). I believe we have plenty to discuss.”
Andy Murray meets Roger Federer
Roger Federer and teammate Andy Murray have a catch-up at training.
The fact that Federer’s career comes to an end in London is certainly appropriate.
He began the doors of his Grand Slam account west of The O2 Arena at Wimbledon in 2003, securing the record for men’s eight overall titles in the grass court major. The two final one of six wins in The ATP Finals also came at The O2.
“I’m happy to do it here in London,” Federer said. Federer. “Thinking about it This city has been an absolute delight for me. Perhaps it’s the most special place in the world with Wimbledon across the street as well as here in The O2. (Having) been here, played and won for a number of years, and also was also a winner here. I felt it was appropriate. I’ve always been awed by the crowds at this venue as well.
“Having Bjorn on the bench along with me for my final game resonated in a significant way for me. Being with the other players around me made me feel as if I would not be alone when I announced my retirement.
“Not that I was trying to take over this tournament or any other way, but I berate players who, at times, quit the tour and say”I’m taking on one more game, but at one point , you lose and then you’re on your own. Most times, you’ll be defeated at one point since there is only one player takes home the trophy.
“I just felt like this works very well here.”
Federer isn’t the only one. The crowd of his peers, the thousands who attend The O2 and millions watching around the world will ensure that.