Federer has confirmed that the last tournament of his illustrious career will be the Laver Cup in London, to be held next weekend on the 02.
The Swiss maestro who has won a total of 20 Grand Slams, the third highest men’s scorer of all time is retiring as one of the greatest the game has ever played.
Federer’s last appearance at a major was at Wimbledon last year, where he reached the quarterfinals. His last Grand Slam win was at the 2018 Australian Open.
He claimed 103 singles titles on the ATP tour and was the world number one for 237 weeks between February 2004 and August 2008, which is still a record.
Federer’s decision follows a turbulent period for the Swiss star, who has undergone three knee surgeries in a desperate attempt to return to his former glory.
Federer is expected to participate in exhibition games, but the Laver Cup, where he will represent Team Europe, will be his last game on the ATP tour.
“To my tennis family and beyond, of all the gifts tennis has given me over the years, the greatest, without a doubt, are the people I’ve met along the way: my friends, my competitors, and most importantly, the fans who make the sport’s life.” give,” Federer said.
Today I want to share something new with you. As many of you know, the past three years have presented me with challenges in the form of injuries and surgeries.
“I have worked hard to get back to full competitive form. But I also know my body’s capabilities and limits, and the message to me has been clear lately.
‘I am 41 years old. I’ve played over 1,500 games in 24 years. Tennis has treated me more generously than I could have ever dreamed, and now I have to recognize when it’s time to end my competitive career.
“The Laver Cup in London next week will be my last ATP event. I will of course play more tennis in the future, but just not in Grand Slams or on the tour.
READ ALSOSerena Williams hails Tiger Woods’ influence
“This is a bittersweet decision because I will miss everything the tour brought me. But at the same time, there is so much to celebrate. I consider myself one of the happiest people on the planet. I got a special talent for tennis, and I did it at a level I could never have imagined, for much longer than I ever thought possible.’
Federer who boasts of fans across the globe is called ‘Baba Ibeji’ by his Nigerian fans following the arrival of his set of twins girls Myla and Charlene 2019, and boys Leo and Lenny 2014.