Credit: Sports Exclusive
Say it isn't so, but it's true, 20 time Grand Slam Champion Roger Federer is calling it, he's leaving the sport he has played for over 20 + years. I've watched this man embrace, play, and elevate this sport to a world class level no one in the sport except could imagine, except, say Billie Jean King for my generation.
We certainly will miss him. He has been a statesmen to the sport, an excellent ambassador to the game and beautiful to watch. Sadly, I came close one year to seeing him play at Indian Wells in 2014, only to find out tickets were sold out for his final. I ended up watching his match at a nearby Palm Springs bar. Novak Djokovic and Roger battled through a three-set clash, unfortunately Djokovic came out on top. If only I knew this day would come, but now, this coming weekend will be his last performance.
He'll be playing at the Laver Cup which he has participated in the past, in London. Certainly, I won't be there, but hopefully Tennis Channel will be able to broadcast this event this weekend.
My only memorabilia I have of Mr. Federer is a neon green cap with his logo, got on sale of course and not the standard red cap. But love it overall as a memento as my sports hero.
It will be hard to see him off court and be on the sidelines as this is not normal to see. I truly enjoyed his beautiful tennis form, old school one handed back hand hitting which many in the sport today do not employ. His movements on the court are so surreal, just can't believe how he gets to every ball and changing his rallies from defense to offense in a split second to hit a winning shot against his opponents who of course with stunned looks.
Tennis will always be my sport I can play in and also watch from the sidelines. Sadly, my favorite player won't be there, but hopefully, other inspiring tennis players will be able to somehow "replicate" his style of play and be the next ambassador to the sport. Maybe.
Bravo Roger Federer!
