"I'm known for having a good physique," Federer shared with former colleague Andy Roddick on the American's podcast after the Laver Cup in San Francisco last week. According to Federer, he never missed a match due to injury, and this was fortunate.
"Towards the end of my career, my knee stopped listening to me," Federer said after Roddick mentioned the crutches the Swiss star had to use in 2021. "I often hid the severity of the injuries. I didn't want the media or opponents to know."
Federer expressed admiration for his rival Nadal, who has endured numerous serious injuries throughout his career. "Nadal's approach was the opposite of mine; he was always open about his injuries," Federer said. "It wasn't until I had to have surgery that I truly appreciated what I had. There were times when my back kept me from getting out of a chair, but people still thought I was perfect. Nadal faced that daily."
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Federer (right) and Nadal during a practice session at the 2022 Laver Cup at the O2 Arena in London, England. Photo: Reuters |
Federer (right) and Nadal during a practice session at the 2022 Laver Cup at the O2 Arena in London, England. Photo: Reuters
Federer always hoped to extend his career, believing his body would adapt to age. But this didn't happen, and the "Express Train" had to retire in 2022 with an unhealed knee injury. "I accepted it and had a beautiful ending," he added. "There was no preparation for ending my career with a doubles match alongside Nadal. It happened naturally, and therefore the emotions were genuine. I was happy to retire alongside rivals, legends, my family, and fans."
Also on Roddick's podcast, Federer said he usually kept his training simple, aiming for a relaxed playing style, which helped him avoid injuries. "I really hated practicing with Agassi because he always hit so hard," Federer joked with Roddick. "I could handle three of his shots, but by the 4th, the ball would whiz past me. That wasn't my style of training. I still trained intensely, but in a different way."
Federer ended his career with 20 Grand Slam titles, the third most in history. He enjoyed a period of almost absolute dominance, winning 16 of 27 Grand Slams from late 2003 to early 2010. Agassi was defeated by Federer in the 2005 US Open final, while Roddick lost to the Swiss legend in three Wimbledon finals and one US Open final.
Vy Anh
