CNN
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The outpouring of praise and admiration following the announcement of Roger Federer’s retirement speaks to the Swiss tennis star’s remarkable impact and legacy in the world of tennis, sport and the world. -of the.
Where Federer’s accomplishments on the pitch rank among the greatest in the men’s game – although he is undoubtedly in the top three – will be up for debate, but there is no doubt that he is the most transcendent tennis player to ever pick up a racquet.
No one else in sports has garnered global adoration, endorsements or become an icon quite like Federer.
Twenty-two-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal, whose career-long rivalry with Federer has produced some of the most memorable matches in sports history, has called it an “honor and a privilege” to compete against him.
“Dear Roger, my friend and rival,” Nadal wrote. “I wish that day had never come… it’s a sad day for me personally and for athletes around the world. I told you when we spoke and now it’s here.
“It has been a pleasure but also an honor and a privilege to share all these years with you, to experience so many incredible moments on and off the pitch. We will have many more moments to share together in the future, it remains there are still plenty of 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 lies ahead. I will see you in London at the Laver Cup.
Twenty-three times 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 so eloquently ended this game – perfectly done, as did your career,” she wrote on Instagram.
“I have always admired and admired you. Our journeys have always been so similar, so similar. You have inspired countless millions and millions of people – including me – and we will never forget.
“I congratulate 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 All England Club title eight times, meant he had become synonymous with the green grass of center court. He last lifted the trophy there in 2017, 13 years after his maiden victory at Wimbledon.
“Roger, where to start? wrote the official tournament page. “It has been a privilege to witness your journey and see you become a champion in every sense of the word.
“We will miss you so much on our courts, but all we can say for now is thank you, for the memories and the joy you have given so many people.”
Seven-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady said Thursday at a press conference: “Phenomenal, great player, you know, he’s just a great competitor and you know…he had a great run, he was great, always respectful of everyone and meant a lot.”
The day Roger Federer couldn’t stop laughing at the CNN correspondent’s Spanish phrases
Billie Jean King, Tennis Pioneer and Hall of Famer wrote on Twitter“Roger Federer is a champion of champions. He has the most complete game of his generation and has captured the hearts of sports fans around the world with incredible speed on the court and a powerful tennis spirit. He had a historic career with memories that will live on and on.
“Congratulations @rogerfederer. We wish you the best as you continue your journey.
Current Women’s World No. 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 was a privilege to witness your career. I wish you the best.”
Pau Gasol, two-time NBA champion and six-time All-Star said: “Thank you for inspiring us and being a great example for all of us.”
In a press release published on the official olympics twitter page, International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach said: “@RogerFederer is a gentleman on and off the pitch – and a true Olympic champion. Congratulations Roger on your outstanding career, good luck for the future. I hope our paths will cross again.”
