When ‘Badboy’ Jimmy Connors Dismissed Roger Federer’s Longevity by Citing a Pertinent John McEnroe and Björn Borg Example

The American tennis legend, Jimmy Connors is one of the all-time greats. He has also faced up against tennis legends such as John McEnroe and Björn Borg. Connors once asserted that it was challenging for players of his generation to play at their prime for a longer time period.

However, the former American tennis player also stated that it is much easier for modern-era tennis players like Roger Federer to play at their prime for longer periods of their tennis careers.

Jimmy Connors once talked about Roger Federer’s tennis career

The former American tennis player, Connors was once asked how long he thought Federer’s prime would last during his tennis career. He was further asked if there is any modern-era tennis player like Federer who would be as competitive as he was at 38 and 39.

‘Badboy’ Jimmy Connors answered the question by stating that there was a variety of tough opponents. He added that it was very difficult to play for a longer period in such a competition. The American tennis legend also stated that it is much easier for modern-era tennis players like Roger Federer to play in their prime for a longer period.

Connors stated, “Because the variety of opponents is not like it was, I would think that being able to play longer would be a little bit easier now. You don’t have to deal with playing McEnroe one way and then Lendl one way and then Borg another way and then Eddie Dibbs another way.”

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The former tennis star further added that he needed to have different strategies on the court, in case one didn’t work.  He stated, “Every match that you played, you had to take two or three different ways to play out to the court to play in case one didn’t work. The way the guys are playing now, their styles are mostly all the same.” Connors also said the way modern tennis players are playing is mostly the same in terms of their styles and strategies.

Roger Federer bids farewell

The Swiss tennis legend announced his retirement from the sport in an emotional post on social media. He thanked his fans and family for their constant support during his two-decade tennis career. Federer also stated that it was difficult for him to make a comeback on the tennis court. He said that it was tough for him after suffering numerous injuries that affected his fitness.

Many celebrities and athletes paid tribute to the Swiss tennis legend. Rafael Nadal, his friend, and rival, also wrote an emotional message on his social media. Nadal was shocked by Federer’s decision to retire from tennis. The Spaniard also mentioned that he will miss the Swiss Maestro and their legendary rivalry.

Federer, the 20-time Grand Slam champion, has left an indelible mark on the tennis court as a result of his remarkable victories.

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