“Grew up With the Rivalry”: Next-Gen Star Picks Roger Federer Over Rafael Nadal as His Idol

Back at the Rome Masters 2020, 18-year-old, Lorenzo Musetti, rose to fame after beating Stan Wawrinka. He played incredibly well and thrashed the Swiss star 6-0, 7-6. Seeing such amazing tennis, many wondered who the inspiration of the young prodigy was. Well, the answer is none other than Roger Federer.

“Federer has always been my favorite player, he’s my reference, and continues to be…I grew up with the rivalry between him and Nadal, and when they ask me what my dream final would be, I always answer against Roger at Wimbledon,” He said.

Roger Federer at Wimbledon

With 8 Wimbledon titles, Roger Federer is undoubtedly the greatest ever grass-court player. Hence, it is no surprise that Musetti wants to play against him there. However, even the greatest have had slip-ups and the Swiss Maestro is no different.

Last year, Roger faced Novak Djokovic in the final of the Wimbledon. He had 2 championship points, and he squandered both of them, which led to Novak winning the event.

This was a terrible slip-up, and it probably haunts him to this day. Now, the big question is – will he ever win the title again?

Considering that the Swiss Maestro is 39 years old, many might think that it’s unlikely. Also, in 2020, he underwent 2 knee surgeries which may impact his performance when he returns to the court.

Clearly, the odds are against Roger. However, the 20-time Grand Slam champion excels at proving people wrong. Back in 2017, he came back from knee surgery and won 2 Grand Slam titles. Let’s hope that he will repeat this feat when he returns in 2021.

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