Roger Federer has been named sportsman of the year at the Swiss Sports Awards following his successful season on the tour.
The world No.2 fought off competition from cyclist Nino Schurter and skier Beat Feuz to claim the honour for the seventh time in his career. He received 36.88% of the total votes in the category, 10% more than his nearest rival. Federer last won the award back in 2014.
“I’m absolutely thrilled,” Federer said about winning the reward.
During his speech, the 19-time grand slam champion joked about what his children said to him earlier in the day. Questioning why he is receiving the accolade, when Rafael Nadal is No.1 in the world.
“After dinner my kids asked me where I was going. I told them there is this awards gala where I could win a prize. Then they said: ‘But isn’t Rafa number 1?!’ Federer told the Swiss audience.
Currently in Dubai training for the new season, Federer was unable to attend the awards ceremony on Sunday night. According to Swiss newspaper Tagesanzeigerm his parents were there to represent him. Federer still spoke at the event via video link.
Top 3 Swiss sportsman of 2017
1. Roger Federer: 36.88%
2. Nino Schurter: 25.63%
3. Beat Feuz: 15.55%
Federer ends 2017 with seven ATP titles to his name, including two grand slams. He returned to the Tour at the Australian Open after taking a six-month hiatus due to a knee injury. At the tournament he defeated four top 10 seeds on route to win his first major title since 2012. Later in the year, he won a record eighth Wimbledon title by efeating Marin Cilic in the final. Outside of the major tournaments, he has also won three Masters 1000 trophies as well as two ATP 500 tournaments in Halle and Basel.
“It was a gigantic year, maybe my favourite year. If 2018 is only half as successful, I’m satisfied.” He said.
So honored to have won this award. Sharing this with my entire team.. I wouldn’t be where I am and who I am without them. Thank you. https://t.co/Cyoz9kq77T
— Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) December 10, 2017
Another member of Federer’s camp to triumph was long-time coach Severin Luthi. The 41-year-old has been working with the Swiss player since 2007. In 2014 he also guided the Swiss Davis Cup team to win the tournament for the first time in history.
“The only thing that matters to me is to help Roger play better.” Said Luthi.
Congratulations on coach of the year in Switzerland 🇨🇭, So well deserved, lucky 🍀 to have you on my team. You’ve been a rock in my corner for years. 👊🏻 Thank you 🙏🏼 pic.twitter.com/gTDr75Xmpf
— Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) December 10, 2017
Federer will return to action in the first week of January at the Hopman Cup, where he will be teaming up with Belinda Bencic.
