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20-Time Grand Slam Champion Federer Retires After Laver Cup Loss
A tearful Roger Federer waved goodbye to professional tennis after being defeated in the Laver Cup doubles.
The Swiss star announced his retirement earlier this month after an amazing career that saw him win 20 Grand Slams, including eight Wimbledon titles.
The 41-year-old joined forces with his long-term rival Rafa Nadal – himself a 22-time Grand Slam winner – to take on Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe in the annual team event between Europe and the rest of the world.
Despite Federer not having played competitively for over a year, the veteran duo pushed the Americans all the way before losing 4-6 7-6 (7-2) 11-9 as Team World levelled at 2-2 at the end of play.
An emotional Federer hugged Nadal and the other players before the acclaim of thousands of fans who chanted his name at the O2 Arena in London.
Federer and Nadal could not hold back the tears as they listened to British singer Ellie Goulding, who rounded off a memorable night with a performance.
“It’s been a wonderful day. I’m happy, not sad. It feels great to be here. I’m happy I made it through,” said Federer.
Federer had battled a knee injury for the past two years and needed three operations in a bid to overcome the problem. However, a recent scan brought further bad news, prompting him to announce his retirement.
The family joined him on court afterwards for a memorable celebration, which saw Federer hoisted aloft by his fellow players, including another great rival Novak Djokovic.
“Everyone’s here, the boys and girls. My wife has been so supportive. She could have stopped me a long, long time ago but she didn’t,” said Federer.
“She kept me going and allowed me to play, so it’s amazing – thank you.”
Despite the match finishing at almost half past midnight in the UK, the celebrations continued for nearly 30 minutes more, with few of the fans in London’s 02 Arena making for the exit.
“Thank you everybody. I’ve had so many people cheer me on and you guys here tonight mean the world,” said Federer.
“This is not the end-end, you know, life goes on. I’m healthy, I’m happy, everything’s great, and this is just a moment in time.”
/Stewart Sports news editor
