On 23 September, Roger Federer played his last tennis match at the Laver Cup. A symbolic doubles match played with his friend and rival Rafael Nadal, followed by a moving ceremony of the Swiss’ farewell to the world of professional tennis. Afraid of being overcome with emotion during his speech, Federer had a plan B.
Last September, a page was turned in the history of sport. Roger Federer, considered by many to be the best player in tennis history, he was retiring after an immense career and a legacy unique to his sport. The emotion was total for the Swiss, who feared not being able to speak in front of the crowd.
“We had a plan B planned”
During the presentation of the Sports Awards in Switzerland, Roger Federer referring to the ceremony of Making Cup and made a startling revelation: In fact, with my agent Tony Godsick, we had planned a plan B if ever I was unable to say a word. I have to say I was a little anxious before everything fell into place“, he explained in the remarks reported byWeLoveTennis.
Roland-Garros: After his nightmare against Nadal, Zverev releases big news https://t.co/rbeL95jGu8 pic.twitter.com/0UdajHrFCc
—le10sport (@le10sport) December 12, 2022
“I knew I could do a double and that relaxed me a bit”
After a 24-year career during which he won 20 in particular Grand Slamsthe emotion was palpable for Roger Federerwho wasn’t sure if he could play at the event:At first, a few weeks earlier, I wasn’t even sure if I could play, so I figured I should show up in a suit and tie. Then I realized I could do a double and that relaxed me a bit. That day, despite the tears and emotions, I was able to say a few words, so it was great, and I think I fought well in the end (laughs)“, concluded the Swiss, whose retirement had particularly affected Rafael Nadal.