Roger Federer shares concern for tennis’ next generation

Roger Federer: The fans are the centre of everything

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Roger Federer has claimed tennis is becoming too serious but has hailed Michael Schumacher for giving him inspiration when he was a child. Federer retired from tennis earlier this year following an illustrious career that saw him win 20 Grand Slam titles.

“When I was growing up, I had Michael Schumacher to look up to, who was at the top for so long,” Federer told The Daily Show. “Tiger Woods – same thing. I always thought that it was impossible to do that and stay at the top.

“People ask how I did it but it’s normal – you just go out there and keep doing it. It’s fun. Everybody else would like to be in your shoes. You have a duty to represent the sport and enjoy it while it lasts. I really feel like I squeezed that lemon until the last drop. I needed the likes of Pete Sampras to show me how it is at the top. And it’s tough but I had a lot of fun on the tour.

“I’m happy that I didn’t take tennis that seriously or professionally. I know tennis is going in that direction but I hope we don’t lose the fun of it.”

Federer turned professional in 1998 and won his first Grand Slam title in 2003 when he defeated Mark Philippoussis in the Wimbledon final. The Swiss ace went on to lift an incredible 16 major trophies between 2003 and 2010, before winning another four titles later in his career.

The 41-year-old finished his career with eight Wimbledon titles, six Australian Open trophies and five US Open victories as well as one French Open success. And his 20 Grand Slam titles means he is the third most successful men’s singles player of all time after long-time rivals Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic, who have won 22 and 21 Grand Slams respectively.

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Federer was a popular player throughout his career and was adored for his care-free attacking style of tennis as well as his joyful persona off the court. And his latest comments suggest he feels the next generation of players aren’t relaxed enough about the sport.

“This is not the end-end – life goes on,” Federer said after he retired following his appearance at the Laver Cup in September. “I’m healthy, I’m happy, everything’s great – and this is just a moment in time. The last two days have been tough to say the least. Thankfully in moments I totally forgot about it, slept great. Everything was wonderful – I could enjoy it I feel. And because of that I think I will be able to have a better recollection of how it went.”

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