Tennis Legend Roger Federer Pens Farewell
Photo: New York Times
The goat, Roger Federer, graced us with more than two decades of his career as a professional tennis player. Federer took the sport to new heights and redefined tennis with his artistry and grace - he just made it look easy. The 41-year-old broke the news of his retirement via social media and penned a statement on Thursday to all of his fans, making it clear he'll retire after next week's Laver Cup in London. Federer celebrates an iconic career as he holds 103 titles, 20 Grand Slam singles titles, second in the Open Era, and more than $130 million in prize money. Undoubtedly, Federer has poetically led men's tennis for over 20 years. His retirement announcement stunned the tennis world, and we realize that we'll be saying farewell to not one but two tennis stars: Roger Federer and Serena Williams. The feeling is surreal. Federer revealed he will still participate in future matches, not Grand Slams or on tour. His statement:
“I have played more than 1,500 matches over 24 years. Tennis has treated me more generously than I ever would have dreamt, and now I must recognize when it’s time to end my competitive career. The Laver Cup next week in London will be my final ATP event. I will play more tennis in the future, of course, but just not in Grand Slams or on the tour.”
Although Federer made the game of tennis look effortless, he persevered after having endured multiple injuries in recent years, the sand symbolizing his career was rapidly falling to the bottom of the hourglass, and the time has come; even great champions retire. We will remember him as he continued to accumulate titles and break records, fortifying his greatness. Despite his injuries, Federer always was the one to beat. The well-respected champion has graced us with his talents, and year after year, we knew he would be back despite injuries - he was a fighter. And the world knew it; this man has won the fans' favorite award at the end-of-year ATP Awards for 19 years straight.
Photo: New York Times
“I wish this day would have never come”
Tennis is entering a new future. Federer will soon be retired, along with Serena Williams, Djokovic is 35, still able to accumulate more major titles but aging none the less. But this new future is showcasing new stars who are changing the game. Young players like, Carlos Alcaraz Garifia, Iga Świątek, Casper Ruud, and Frances Tiafoe are just a few tennis stars and we can’t wait to see more as the legendary Federer paved a way for new upcoming players to follow.
Photo: New York Times
