It was the perfect ending to the inaugural Laver Cup for team Europe as Roger Federer held his nerve to outlast a spirited Nick Kyrgios is a third set tiebreaker to prevail 4-6, 7-6(6), 11-9.
Federer, who was one of the driving forces behind the creation of the event, headed into his clash will all the pressure on his shoulders. On the final day of the three-day event, team world managed to close in on their deficit with a duo of wins, including John Isner’s shock straight sets win over world No.1 Rafael Nadal. The American has never defeated Nadal on the ATP Tour.
“I was ready to go. I had to be. That’s what a team member does and the boys played fantastic all weekend. But we know it could all change very quickly on Sunday.” Said Federer.
“I was looking at maybe getting ready for the doubles, so I am very pleased and relieved to get it done.”
The final match of the tie was one filled with twists and turns with the 19-time grand slam champion being pushed to his limits by Kyrgios. Opportunities came and went for Federer. After dropping the opening set, he was unable to maintain his 3-1 lead in the second due to his opponents resurgence. It was a familiar story in the tiebreaker with the 36-year-old having a 6-3 lead before Kyrgios levelled at 6-6. Still, Federer held her nerve to force proceedings into a deciding tiebreaker.
Technically the Laver Cup is an exhibition event, but it was hard to tell that. The emotions shown by both players and their team mates were more fitting to the Davis Cup as the packed crowd inside the O2 Arena in Prague cheered them on. With all to play for, Federer finally secured the win when a Kyrgios shot slammed into the net. Prompting a huge celebration from the world No.2 as his opponent was on the verge of tears.
“It has just been an amazing and fun week.” Reflected Federer. “I am so proud that the event worked so well as it did. Time will tell how big the Laver Cup will become, but the first one is officially over and I can’t wait to get my hand on the trophy.”
Cheering for Federer from the sidelines was an animated Nadal. Who orchestrated the crowd to generate extra support for team Europe. The investment of the Spaniard in the event has been one praised by his teammates. Earlier in the week, he once said that he wasn’t playing in an exhibition because ‘he doesn’t practice for exhibitions.’ A sign of his commitment.
“It has been an unforgettable three days.” Said Nadal. “I always love the team competition. Having next to me this unbelievable group has been a great team spirit. It has been probably one of the nicest weekend I have had during the year.”
Federer’s vision
During the trophy ceremony, Federer talked about the significance of the Laver Cup. An event that was created by Federer’s management company TEAM8, former Davis Cup player Jorge Paulo Lemann and Tennis Australia.
“I had a vision once upon a time that we should honour the great players of our sport because there’s only so many roles a legend can have it our sport.” He explained.
“It seems that coaching is one, the seniors tour, etc. I just thought it was not enough. I felt like we need to see the legends of our sport more frequently. I thought of who we like to thank. It is not just the players on the court today. There are so many who have paid their way for us and we can enjoy playing in front of a crowd.“
The legend the cup is named after is Rod Laver. The only player in history to achieve two calendar grand slams. He also won 200 titles over a 20-year period, more than any other player in the sport.
“I am so proud to be a member of an event called the Laver Cup. Rod Laver along with millions of others was my idol growing up.” Team world captain John McEnroe commented.
The start of something special?
After a successful first edition, hopes are high for the future of the newest event in tennis. The ability to attract sell out crowds and some of the biggest names is encouraging. It appears almost certain that the Laver Cup will continue for as long as Federer and Nadal are playing, but questions remain about the long-term future.
Team world will host the second edition of the Laver Cup in Chicago. Making an announcement on Sunday, the tie will take place at The United Center. An indoor sports arena that is the home ground for the Chicago Bulls (NBA) and the Chicago Blackhawks (NHL).
“The Laver Cup will draw tennis fans from throughout the world to Chicago for a competition like no other,” mayor Rahm Emanuel said in a statement.
“But this competition will do more than bring world-class tennis back to Chicago – it will inspire the next generation of tennis champions in neighborhoods across the city and beyond.”
The 2018 edition will take place between September 21st-23rd.
