For more than a decade, the professional tennis circuit was monopolized by three men who, together, have 66 Grand Slams. Roger Federer, Rafa Nadal and Novak Djokovic They marked a golden generation in the world of sports, which they have already begun to take over. The Swiss hung up his racket in 2022, with 20 major competitions behind him; The Spaniard, at 22, announced that he will say goodbye to the courts in the 2024 Davis Cup; And, the Serbian, at 24, is the only one who is still active at 37 years old.
Despite being the one with the fewest Grand Slams of the three, Federer has earned the respect of everyone inside and outside his discipline. Ivan Ljubičićhis coach from 2016 until the day he retired, recalled his time alongside the Basel player in the program Return Winnera Eurosport.
“The details, the excellence in all the things he did. Preparing for interviews, his warm-ups, dinners… everything he did, he did with great diligence. “I often found myself not knowing what to say, because he was perfect,” assured the Croatian.
The Balkan is not the only one who has surrendered at Roger’s feet. In 2022, Absent He stated that it had been an honor to compete against him: “Roger, it is difficult to look back on this day and put into words everything we have shared together in this sport. More than a decade of incredible moments and battles to remember. Your career set the example of what it means to achieve excellence. and lead with integrity and poise.”
“It is an honor to know you on and off the court, and for many years to come. I know this new chapter will hold incredible things for you, Mirka, the children, all your loved ones, and Roger’s fans still have a lot to look forward to. From our family to yours, we wish you much joy, health and prosperity in the future. “I look forward to celebrating your achievements and seeing you in London,” He ended his gratitude on social networks.
Rafa Nadal, His eternal rival on the court and friend off it, he also does not forget the moments he has lived with the Swiss. The Mallorcan took advantage of a visit to his tennis school to remember a conversation they had. “There in the mountains (Dolomites, in Italy), we had an interesting conversation about a word that I think is very important: the legacy. “We both agreed on one thing that we believe is of utmost importance,” he began.
“How would we like to be remembered in a few years? What do we want future generations to think of us? We are both very sure of our answers. It is fantastic that our achievements, titles and records are recognized, but, as the years go by, it is likely that someone new will come along and do it better,” he reflected in his speech.
“What is important is the way we will be remembered. We both want to be remembered as good people. We live in a society that focuses on what and now, but we would like to highlight the importance of how. “The people around you should see you as someone to copy for your values.”Nadal explained.
