It’s not the way Roger Federer wanted to go out, but Friday’s loss in a doubles match in the Laver Cup in London ended his legendary tennis career.
Federer and doubles partner Rafael Nadal were in tears following their loss.
The numbers don’t tell the full story of the popular Federer’s amazing 24-year career, but they’re part of the legend. There were 20 Grand Slam titles, third on the all-time men’s list to Nadal (22) and Novak Djokovic (21). He notched 103 singles tournament victories, second behind Jimmy Connors’ 109 in the post-1968 Open era. The Swiss star won a record eight Wimbledon men’s titles. He was ranked No. 1 in the world for 310 weeks, which included a record 237 consecutive weeks, and finished the year ranked No. 1 five times.
So looking back at a great career, Federer had plenty to celebrate after Friday’s loss, in which he and Nadal ultimately lost their match to Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe.
“It’s been a wonderful day,” Federer said immediately afterward (via ESPN). “I said to the guys I’m not sad, I’m happy. It feels like a celebration to me. It’s exactly what I had hoped for.”
It didn’t take long before the tributes to Federer began pouring in on social media.
Enjoy your retirement, Roger. Thanks for the memories.
[ESPN]
About Arthur Weinstein
Arthur spends his free time traveling around the U.S. to sporting events, state and national parks, and in search of great restaurants off the beaten path.