Roger Federer played the last match of his career during the Laver Cup on the 23rd of September in London. He played alongside Rafael Nadal and against the pairing Frances Tiafoe/ Jack Sock. The outcome of the match wasn’t the point: the defeat (6/4 6/7 9/11) against Team World didn’t take anything away from the magic of the event.
The career of a giant of the sport came to an end during Friday’s night session. Roger Federer couldn’t have picked a better tournament to say his goodbyes to professional tennis. In the same team as his three biggest rivals: Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray; his last game played tribute to 24 years on the tour.
During the whole encounter, Team Europe and Team World put on a show in the O2 Arena. One last time, Roger Federer showed the singularity of his game: unreadable serves, balls hit early and a master’s hand at the net. Rafael Nadal, Frances Tiafoe and Jack Sock also played an entertaining tennis. The holding of a super tiebreak is the proof of a match filled with suspense.
This match is the conclusion of one of the greatest rivalries in tennis history: “Fedal”. During the 2h16 of play, ‘Rafa’ and ‘Roger’ demonstrated a radiant good mood. With smiles on their faces after numerous points, they seemed to enjoy the moment. This encounter reminded the antinomy of their games. On the one hand, Roger Federer showed elegance and ease from another planet; on the other hand, Nadal embodied strength and combativeness no matter what.
The greatness of the event wasn’t tangible until very late. A few points before the end of the match, Roger Federer traded his smile for an emotional and tensed face. As soon as the hugs at the net were over, the man with 20 Grand Slam titles could not hold back his tears.
Despite having a lump is his throat, during his on-court interview, ‘The Maestro’ told Jim Courier: “I’m happy, I’m not sad. It does feel like a celebration”.
The emotion was tangible on the side of the court. Rafael Nadal’s tears showed the importance that Roger Federer has had in his career, but also in tennis history.
The retirement of such an iconic player marks the beginning of a new era of the sport. After years of domination and monstruous achievements, he officially passes the torch to the next generations.
Marnie Abbou
Read more in french : https://sixiemeset.com/roger-federer-et-la-fin-dune-ere/
