Federer: Twelve Final Days

On September 14, 2022, the legendary tennis player Roger Federer recorded a heartfelt video announcing his retirement after an illustrious 24-year career. The following day, the news was shared with fans around the world. Over the past three years, Roger faced numerous challenges with injuries and surgeries, struggling with fluid accumulation in his knees during training. Despite enduring surgery, the persistent pain signaled to Roger that he was reaching the twilight of his competitive journey.

Recalling significant moments, Roger said goodbye to a painful chapter that began during the 2016 Australian Open, where an injury occurred while he was in the midst of bath time for his children. The doctors discovered a meniscus issue that led to surgery in 2020, which unfortunately required a second procedure due to complications. Reflecting on this, Roger admitted he returned to competitive tennis too soon, resulting in a run of match losses that visibly affected his family, who watched him struggle on the court.

As the reality set in that he could no longer compete at the Grand Slam level, Roger expressed a profound sense of relief for himself and his family, acknowledging the emotional toll of four surgeries throughout his career. By the time of his retirement, Roger was a remarkable 41 years old and had participated in over 1,500 professional matches. His journey began as a ball kid in Basel, and he found love along the way with Mirka Federer, whom he met at the age of 18 on the tennis circuit. Together they celebrated the joys of travel and tennis, starting their family with kids: Leo Federer, Lenny Federer, Charlene Federer, and Myla Federer.

Supportive figures such as Tony Godsick (his manager and agent) and friend Mary Joe Fernandez stood by him during this pivotal time. In a personal gesture, Roger reached out to friends to announce his retirement before the media release. As he made his way to the Laver Cup in London, he played for Team Europe under the watchful eye of captain Björn Borg alongside formidable competitors like Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray, and Rafael Nadal.

Participating only in doubles matches, Roger reminisced about the significance of the Laver Cup—an event he created to honor Rod Laver and fellow players. He fondly noted that he had been visiting Wimbledon for 25 years, ever since winning the boys’ tournament at age 16. As the sport evolved, so did the dynamics between players, notably with Novak Djokovic entering the great rivalry amidst Roger and Rafael.

When reflecting on his journey with Rafael Nadal, Roger shared the honor of having a last doubles match together, a wish granted before his retirement announcement. They both shared a bond that transcended competition—beginning as friends, evolving into fierce rivals, yet always maintaining respect and camaraderie off the court.

As emotions ran high during his last days on tour, Roger came close to tears, cherishing each moment leading to his farewell. On September 23, he played his final match, teaming up with Nadal against Frances Tiafoe and Jack Sock. Though they won the first set, unforced errors crept in, resulting in a loss in the tiebreak. With the match concluded and a flood of applause washing over him, Roger embraced his teammates emotionally, especially Nadal, who felt the impact of their rivalry ending.

In a moving farewell speech, Roger expressed gratitude to Mirka Federer and his family, encapsulating his journey with poignant words. He concluded with a reflective note about the significant impact he felt he had made on the sport he loved dearly.

Last Updated: October 24, 2024 at 08:32