How has the tennis world reacted after Roger Federer’s retirement?
We take a look at some of the more notable reactions from the world of tennis following Roger Federer’s final match at the 2022 Laver Cup.
The world of tennis was both emotive and reverent in its response to Roger Federer’s final game, where the Swiss great teamed up with Rafael Nadal in doubles at the 2022 Laver Cup.
Roger Federer was both a champion and a nice guy
When Roger Federer announced his retirement, the world of tennis and beyond was not exactly shocked given his recent injury problems and three operations on his knee, but it was most definitely moved. “This is a bittersweet decision, because I will miss everything the tour has given me,” Federer wrote. “But at the same time, there is so much to celebrate. I consider myself one of the most fortunate people on Earth. I was given a special talent to play tennis, and I did it at a level that I never imagined, for much longer than I ever thought possible.”
It was a magical evening yesterday. Thank you again to all the players and fans who were here to share this moment with me. It means the world ❤️😊🙏🏼 pic.twitter.com/IKFb6jEeXJ
— Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) September 24, 2022
One of the greatest - if not the greatest - and most decorated players in tennis history, Federer amassed an incredible 20 Grand Slam singles titles - third behind only Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic in the men’s game. During his career, he spent 310 weeks as the No. 1 ranked player in the world and his 237 consecutive weeks at No. 1 is still an ATP record. Yet it must be said that perhaps his greatest quality was his character. Roger Federer was the kind of guy that was hard not to like. Calm, thoughtful and above all respectful and humble in victory, he was an example to many.
The World of Tennis reacts
It wasn’t long after Federer announced his retirement, and after the Swiss great had left a tennis court for the final time, that the world of tennis reacted, nor was it difficult to see the effect Federer had on players and fans alike.
Rafa Nadal salutes a friend
Dear Roger,my friend and rival.
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) September 15, 2022
I wish this day would have never come. It’s a sad day for me personally and for sports around the world.
It’s been a pleasure but also an honor and privilege to share all these years with you, living so many amazing moments on and off the court 👇🏻
Martina Navratilova thanks Roger Federer for the “magic”
What a heartfelt message , full of love, life, hope, passion and gratitude. Which is exactly how Roger played the game we love so much. Thank you thank you thank you, for all the magic!!!
— Martina Navratilova (@Martina) September 15, 2022
Xoxoxo https://t.co/2s1Aw5SpJ5
Rod Laver: “The greater the player, the harder the moment”
Retirement comes to all at some stage, but it seems the greater the player, the harder the moment. That was hard, @rogerfederer. We laughed, and cried, and celebrated with you, and we will continue to do so for a long time. Thank you for being a friend. 🚀 pic.twitter.com/qFhBaEApnR
— Rod Laver (@rodlaver) September 24, 2022
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Australian great Rod Laver paid tribute to Federer after the Swiss’ final game at the tournament the two helped to set up. “Retirement comes to all at some stage, but it seems the greater the player, the harder the moment,” Laver, who won 11 Grand Slams and completed the calendar year slam twice, wrote.
Billie Jean King: “The end of an era”
With @rogerfederer’s last match tonight with @RafaelNadal by his side, an era comes to an end.
— Billie Jean King (@BillieJeanKing) September 24, 2022
These two are competitors, friends, and true champions in sport and in life.
Roger’s journey continues. #LaverCup https://t.co/WjmbOkD3fz
Billie Jean King, a pioneer for equality in women’s tennis who won 39 Grand Slam singles and doubles titles and founded the WTA, described Federer’s retirement as the “end of an era”
Andy Roddick hopes to see his friend in the future
Wimbeldon and Roger created legendary memories together
Roger,
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) September 15, 2022
Where do we begin?
It's been a privilege to witness your journey and see you become a champion in every sense of the word.
We will so miss the sight of you gracing our courts, but all we can say for now is thank you, for the memories and joy you have given to so many. pic.twitter.com/VDWylKvW86
Roland Garros will remember Roger Federer
Thank you for all the memories, Roger 🧡 pic.twitter.com/PhJLUJUiuA
— Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) September 15, 2022