‘I’m Nervous for Him’ – Roger Federer Fulfills His ‘Pinky US Open Promise’ to a Young Fan on His 41st Birthday

Swiss tennis maestro Roger Federer, widely considered one of the greatest players of all time, pleases everyone whenever he steps on the court. However, the way he treats his fans when he steps off the court makes tennis enthusiasts adore him even more. Often we have seen him breaking celebrity stereotypes to cheer up his fans.

One such fan was a boy named Izyan Ahmad. Back in the 2017 US Open, he made a very polite request to Roger Federer. The kid wanted him to be active until he grows up to play against him. Over the years, the tours kept Federer busy, but the 41-year-old never forgot his promise.

Roger Federer fulfills his promise

On his 41st birthday, the legendary tennis player decided to fulfill the dream of his young fan. Izyan Ahmad, known as Zizou, was pleasantly surprised when Federer finally came up to him for a match, as the legend had pinky promised him five years ago.

Here’s what he had asked Federer in the US Open 2017

“Could you play another 8 or 9 years so I can play you when I go pro?”

To which Federer had agreed with a pinky promise.

In a video titled ‘The Promise with Roger Federer and Zizou’ posted by the YouTube channel of Barilla, we can see how a complete setup was made to give a perfect surprise to the young Federer fan. Later, the legend fulfilled Zizou’s dream by playing a tennis match with him.

Before meeting Federer, Zizou had to go through a prank where the cast treated him as a celebrity. Meanwhile, Federer was watching him on the screen.

“Poor Guy! I am nervous for him,” Federer said, chuckling while looking at Zizou on the screen.

Read more: Roger Federer Says His Achievements for Switzerland Are Far More Important for Him Than His Personal Ones

While many would have thought the legend will enjoy some lavish party on his birthday, Federer surprised everyone when he gave a once in a lifetime experience to one of his fans.

The comeback plans for Federer

Roger Federer has been away from the tour for over a year now. The 41-year-old went through several knee surgeries and is still recovering.

As per his plans, the 20-time Grand Slam champion will take part in the Laver Cup 2022. Later, he will play in the Swiss Indoors Basel and officially return to the tour.

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This confirms that he will miss all four Grand Slam of the year. With his 20 Major titles, the Swiss Maestro stands third on the list now. Can he go past Djokovic and Nadal next year before retiring from the sport?