‘Need Support’: Roger Federer Voices the Importance of Having a Team

Former World No. 1 Roger Federer has been out of action for a year. The Swiss star hasn’t competed ever since his semifinal defeat at the Australian Open last season. After that, he had to undergo knee surgeries which delayed his comeback. Furthermore, the pandemic added fear and disrupted normalcy.

During Federer’s absence from the ATP tour, his fellow rivals have added to their Grand Slam tally. Novak Djokovic won last year’s Australian Open and reached 17 Majors overall, while Rafael Nadal won his 13th Roland Garros title to match Federer’s Grand Slam tally.

Moreover, Dominic Thiem broke the ice for the next generation and won his first Major at US Open last season. 

Roger Federer states the importance of having a team

The Swiss ace recently shot a commercial with Mercedes Benz, in which, he states the importance of having a team. Federer makes it clear, all the accomplishments he’s earned, cannot be credited to himself alone but to the entire team and support staff, he’s been blessed with. 

The eight-time Wimbledon champion said: “People think we athletes or famous people get it all by ourselves but we need coaching, we need support, it’s always been a team effort. Maybe on the court, it looks like I’m doing it alone.”

Most of the time, players credit their entourage after winning a particular title. They appreciate the importance these people have in their careers. 

Reflecting on the current season, Roger decided to skip the Australian Open. To live five weeks away from his family and kids was not something he felt comfortable doing at this point in time. 

Also Read: Gilles Simon Says ‘We Can’t Question Roger Federer’s Choices’ During Wimbledon 2019 Finals Against Novak Djokovic