Serena Williams has given a diplomatic response to Roger Federer’s exit from Nike following her opening match at Wimbledon.
Earlier this year it was confirmed that the decade-long deal the world No.2 had with Nike expired in March. On Monday, it was announced that Federer had signed a new sponsorship with Japanese company Uniqlo. Reportedly worth $300 million over a 10-year period.
“I was excited to wear Uniqlo today. It’s been a long time coming. I felt very good out there. It’s also crucial to play well, so it was helpful.” He said following his first round win over Dusan Lajovic.
Williams, who defeated Arantxa Rus in her first round match, currently has a deal with Nike. She has been with the company since 2003. Becoming one of the highest paid athletes in the world. Last year Forbes Magazine named Williams the highest paid sportswoman in the world with yearly endorsements of $19M over a 12-month period. Speaking about the 20-time grand slam champion, the American has hailed Federer’s work with Nike.
“I think both parties have to do what’s best in their interest. I don’t know the ins-and-outs and the details. I am still a Nike athlete.” Stated Williams.
“He’s a Uniqlo athlete now. I’m sure he’s happy. He’s done so much for the Nike brand, the Nike everything, I’m sure it’s all appreciated. I’m sure he’ll do much for the new brand.”
Despite the seemingly admirable swap of sponsorships, questions remain. Most notable is what will happen to the ‘RF’ logo. A symbol that has been attributed with Federer throughout most of his career. Nike currently retains the rights to the logo, but he is confident that this will not be the case for much longer.
“The RF logo is with Nike, but it will come to me at some point,” said Federer.
“I hope rather sooner than later, that Nike can be nice and helpful in the process to bring it over to me.
“It’s also something that was very important for me, for the fans really.
“They are my initials. They are mine. The good thing is it’s not theirs forever.”
It is unclear if Federer has completely cut ties with Nike. During his opening match at Wimbledon, he was seen wearing a pair of RF Nike trainers.
Williams is just one month younger than Federer. The Swiss player has previously talked about playing until his children can remember watching him on the tour. Asked if she would want to do the same for her baby daughter, Williams gave an humorous response.
‘Oh, I’m just playing until Roger stops, so… Gosh, how long? Did he put a time limit on it? He said how many more years he’s going?’ she joked.
When informed it was four years, she went on to say: ‘Well, here I am. We in it. We in it together.
‘As long as he’s here, I’m going to try to be here.’
Both Williams and Federer will play their second round matches on Wednesday.
