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The World says Auf Wiedersehen to Roger Federer

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By Ziaan Siems
Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal holding hands and sharing an emotional moment together

 

The illustrious career of Roger Federer is over, concluding at the Laver Cup tournament over the weekend in an extremely emotional affair.

 

The 41-year-old twenty time Grand Slam champion reflected on his career, praised his fans, and thanked all the special people in his life, leaving the O2 arena in London in tears.

 

 

Federer was undoubtedly the most consistent and dangerous athlete of his time. He is also one of the most decorated players, with over 100-titles in his trophy room.

 

 

An unstoppable force

The Swiss maestro was nearly unbeatable for the better part of the Naughties. Between 2003 and 2009 he lost just one game at Wimbledon, also accomplishing the same feat at the US Open between 2004 and 2009.

 

He first started raising eyebrows at Wimbledon in 2001. The young Federer faced up against Pete Sampras, who was the defending champion. It turned out to be a five-set thriller, with Federer coming out on top to reach his first ever Quarter-Final on the grass courts in London.

 

In a video posted on the ATP Tours Twitter page, Sampras reflected on his relationship with Federer.

 

Federers Facile Form

Anyone who has held a racket in their hand and attempted playing the game will know that it’s probably the most challenging sport — possibly rivalling golf. Federer, however, made it look so easy.

 

It’s even surprising to his fellow professionals.

 

 

He really was in a class of his own. His skill was nearly unmatched. The only man who could really give him a proper go during his era of dominance was Rafael Nadal.

 

The two engaged in epic battles and always brought out the best in each other.

 

 

Epic comes to mind when you think of these two. They have a special relationship, where you really can’t think of the one, without also thinking of the other. Their relationship has gone on past just tennis, and is a friendship that will stand the test of time.

 

After Roger and his wife, Rafa probably shed the most tears

 

 

Rafa and Roger have a deep bond and a huge friendship. Nadal even stated that a part of him will leave with Federer. Their relationship is one that was forged in the heat of a spectacular rivalry. One that might be forever unmatched.

 

 

A player like Roger Federer comes along once in a generation. Every so often, a player comes along and just completely dominates. When he walked out on center court, you knew that you’re in for a stylishly skillful match, which will probably end with “game, set, and match, Federer“.

 

While Novak Djokovic has broken, and is on the verge of breaking multiple records in Roger Federer’s name, some of them might remain for another generation or two – especially at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club.

 

 

The Serbian is one Wimbledon title away from drawing level with the Swiss. However, most Wimbledon successes in a row will stay in the name of Federer and Björn Borg… which is five, if you were wondering.

 

 

Another record that should be safe is the 237 Consecutive Weeks spent as the number one player in the world.

Persistance in Paris

Roger Federer had a clear preference for Grass and Hard Courts. On clay, he struggled to find his feet. He has feature in only five finals at Roland Garros. Four of them were against the king of clay. His old friend and rival, Rafael Nadal. A man almost unbeatable in the city of light.

 

Luckily, in one of these finals, in 2009, Federer came up against Robin Söderling, after the Sweed beat Nadal in the semi-final in four sets.

 

 

Roger Federer was really something else. An athlete that makes you wish that all sports super stars carried themselves like the Swiss player.

 

 

He’s caring, he looks out for others, and has a heart as big as his trophy room.

 

 

The love and respect for Federer has transcended the tennis community. Athletes from all over recognize his greatness and bid him a heartfelt farewell.

 

Roger, you will be missed.

 

Read More: Boks down Pumas, but fail in their Rugby Championship quest

Ziaan Siems
Ziaan Siemshttps://smile904.fm
Ziaan is an unapologetically biased supporter of the Springboks, Stormers, and the Proteas. He was born with a rugby ball in his hand and is still an active sportsman. He’s an all-around cricket talent, who represents the WP Premier League club, Brackenfell CC. Ziaan also shares his expertise on the game of cricket on Pitch Visions coverage of domestic cricket.

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