The outpouring of praise and admiration in the wake of Roger Federer’s retirement announcement is a testament to the Swiss tennis star’s remarkable impact and legacy in the world of tennis, sports and beyond.
Where Federer’s on-court achievements rank among the greats of the men’s game – although they are undoubtedly in the top three – will be debated, but there is no doubt that he is the most transcendent tennis player to ever pick up a racket.
No one else in the sport has won the global adoration, acclaim or become an icon like Federer.
Twenty-two-time grand slam champion Rafael Nadal, whose career rivalry with Federer produced some of the most memorable matches in the history of the sport, called it an “honour and a privilege” to compete against him.
“Dear Roger, my friend and rival,” Nadal wrote. “I wish this day had never come… it’s a sad day for me personally and for athletes around the world. I told you when we talked and now it’s here.
“It has been a pleasure but also an honor and a privilege to share all these years with you, experiencing so many amazing moments on and off the field. We will have many more moments to share together in the future, there are still many things to do together, we know that.
“For now, I really wish you all the happiness with your wife, Mirka, your children, your family and enjoy what is ahead of you. I’ll see you in London at the Laver Cup.”
Twenty-three-time grand slam champion Serena Williams, who recently announced her own retirement from tennis, welcomed Federer to the “retirement club.”
“I wanted to find the perfect way to say this as you put so much eloquently into this game – perfect, just like your career,” she wrote on Instagram.
“I’ve always looked up to you and admired you. Our paths have always been so alike, so alike. You inspired countless millions and millions of people – including me – and we will never forget.
“I applaud you and look forward to all you do in the future. Welcome to the retirement club. And thank you for being you.”
Federer’s success at Wimbledon, winning the title at the All England Club eight times, meant he became synonymous with the green grass of Center Court. He last lifted the trophy there in 2017, 13 years after his first Wimbledon victory.
“Roger, where do we begin?” wrote the official page of the tournament. “It has been a privilege to follow your journey and watch you become a champion in every sense of the word.
“We will greatly miss the sight of you gracing our pitches, but all we can say for now is thank you, for the memories and joy you have given to so many.”
Seven-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady said at a news conference Thursday: “Looking, great player, you know, he’s just a great competitor and you know … he’s had a great run, he’s been great, he’s always respected everybody and he’s meant a lot. ”
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Tennis pioneer and Hall of Famer Billie Jean King tweeted: “Roger Federer is a champion of champions. He has the most complete game of his generation and won the hearts of fans around the world with an amazing speed on the court and a strong tennis mind. He had a storied career with memories that will live on and on.
“Congratulations @rogerfederer. We wish you the best as your journey continues.”
Current women’s world number 1 and three-time grand slam champion Iga Swiatek added: “I just want to thank you for everything you’ve done and everything you are for our sport. It has been a privilege to follow your career. I wish you the best.”
Two-time NBA champion and six-time All-Star Pau Gasol said, “Thank you for inspiring us and setting a great example for us all.”
In a statement posted on the Olympic Games’ official Twitter page, International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach said: “@RogerFederer is a gentleman on and off the court – and a true Olympic champion. Congratulations Roger on your outstanding career, good luck for the future. We hope our paths will meet again.”
