Swiss tennis legend Roger Federer is to retire after next week’s Laver Cup after admitting his battles with a knee problem had forced him to call time on his historic career.
The 41-year-old winner of 20 Grand Slam titles has been out of action since a quarter-final loss at Wimbledon in 2021, after which he underwent his third knee surgery in 18 months.
Federer’s decision to retire provoked an emotional reaction, including from current and former tennis players and coaches.
FULL FEDERER STATEMENT: Legend announces retirement as injuries take their toll
WORLD REACTS: Tributes to Federer after ‘greatest, classiest to ever play’ retires
Here are some of the tributes paid to the 20-time Grand Slam champion:
Rafael Nadal
“Dear Roger, my friend and rival, I wish this day would never have come. It’s been a pleasure but also an honour and privilege to share all these years with you, living so many amazing moments on and off the court.”
Juan Marin del Potro
“I LOVE YOU, Roger. Thank you for everything you’ve done in tennis and with myself. Tennis world will never be the same without you.”
Andy Roddick
“Cheers Roger. Thanks for the shared memories my friend. It was an honor to share time/experiences on the most hallowed grounds in our sport. Don’t be a stranger… Also, seems like a good time to start training for Wimby.”
John Isner
“Absolute living legend. Thanks for all the countless memories.”
Carlos Alcaraz
“Roger has been one of my idols and a source of inspiration! Thank you for everything you have done for our sport! I still want to play with you! Wish you all the luck in the world for what comes next!”
Milos Raonic
“Thank you for doing more for tennis than any single individual.”
Denis Shapovalov
“A role model for me and so many others!!… It’s been a privilege to share the court with you!!”
Petra Kvitova
“Roger – you have always been such a huge inspiration to me. Your elegance, your grace, your beautiful game… Tennis won’t be the same without you! Thank you.”
Jessica Pegula
“Tearing up just listening to this. We love you Roger.”
Billie Jean King
“Roger Federer is a champion’s champion. He has the most complete game of his generation & captured the hearts of sports fans around the world with an amazing quickness on the court & a powerful tennis mind. He has had a historic career w/memories that will live on and on.”
Martina Navratilova
“What a heartfelt message, full of love, life, hope, passion and gratitude. Which is exactly how Roger played the game we love so much. Thank you thank you thank you, for all the magic!!!”
Rod Laver
“Thank you for everything Roger. See you soon. Rocket.”
Toni Nadal
“Rafael would not have been as strong without Roger Federer. He always had to raise his level… I feel very sad to see a sports icon, one of the most important players in tennis, announce his retirement.”
Wimbledon
“Where do we begin? It’s been a privilege to witness your journey and see you become a champion in every sense of the word. We will so miss the sight of you gracing our courts, but all we can say for now is thank you, for the memories and joy you have given to so many.”
ATP Tour
“You changed the game, #RForever.”
International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach
“Roger Federer is a gentleman on and off the court — and a true Olympic champion.”
