After winning 88 titles in his career, Roger Federer’s thirst for glory on the ATP Tour shows no signs of subsiding as he prepares for his January comeback.
The 17-time grand slam champion hasn’t played a match since his semifinal loss to Milos Raonic at the Wimbledon Championships after ending his season early to rest his knee. Troubled by back and knee problems as well as illness throughout the first half of the year, 2016 has has been the most challenging season for the 35-year-old superstar. The setbacks could have dented Federer’s morale, but for him absence makes the heart grow fonder.
“I really hope this will be a great, real return,” Said Federer during an interview with French radio station Europe 1. “That’s why I’ve worked hard lately. Physical therapy, fitness, physical, and tennis now. I still have sixty days before January. The knee is holding. So far, I’m really happy and it gives me hope that if I come back for a good return.
At the age of 35, Federer is currently the third oldest man in the top 100 after Ivo Karlovic (37) and Stephane Robert (36). For many players at his age, retirement plans are something that features heavy in conversations. On the other hand, Federer is not like most players. Fears about the Swiss player playing his final season in 2017 appear to be abolished (injury permitting) as he aims to add another grand slam title.
“Yes, I really do. Mentally, you have to have new rage and fire to want to win.” He replied when asked if he could win any more major titles. “After three or four tournaments, we’ll see if this is possible or not.”
“I took six months off to return for a few years.”
Federer can’t be blamed for not wanting to end his glorious career. With a massive fan base of 6.21 million Twitter followers and 14.5 million Facebook likes, the Basel-born player has become a heavyweight in the world of sport. In October this year Forbes placed Federer first in their Fab 40 list of the most valuable sports brands. According to Forbes findings, he has a brand value of $37 million per year.
“Unlike other sports, I constantly have 90% of the audience on my side, it’s still pretty amazing, it’s phenomenal and it’s also, I think, one of the reasons why I play.” Said Federer.
So what will Federer do once he hangs up his racket? Fortunately for him, the opportunities presented will be endless. A supercoach, a media commentator, a tennis ambassador is just some of the potential future jobs for the seven-time Wimbledon champion. Life beyond tennis will certainly be bright for Federer, whenever he retires.
“After my career, for sure, I spend more time with my foundation (Roger Federer foundation) and it is very close to my heart.” He told Europe 1.
“And tennis? “I think I might have a coaching role … but do it full time, it’s impossible, with four children. I prefer to be a dad and husband full-time full-time.”
Set for a January return in the build up to the Australian Open, Federer will exit the top ten next week for the first time since 2002.
