Roger Federer is a Superstar, Not a Superhuman

Without a doubt, Roger Federer is one of the greatest tennis players of his generation. However, being the humble person that he is, Roger Federer insisted that he is not perfect. However, given the fact that he has 100 career titles and 20 Grand Slams, people will beg to differ.

Speaking at the Indian Wells press conference, he said, “People always elevate superstar athletes to superman status, like we’re superhuman. Then you get to meet us and you realize, ‘He’s just another normal guy. It just so happens he does great in what he does.’ I don’t see myself like that. Being perfect doesn’t exist. Everybody has their flaws. So do I. If I can make the game more popular, I can be good for fans, that’s great.”

Roger Federer will be attempting to win his 6th Indian Wells Masters in his 18th appearance. Inspite of not being ‘superhuman’ the 37-year old has defied many odds. This is especially in consideration of his mostly injury-free career.

While his skills are great, his body seems to be his best asset on the court. In 2016, he was limited to just seven events due to knee trouble. Fortunately, Roger Federer has avoided injuries that his main rivals like Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray, have suffered.

Roger Federer confessed that there is often a bit of luck needed to avoid such a situation. He cited a situation where a players plays a lot and encounters a rain delay. When they do not warm up, they rip a hamstring and go out and play on it. He advised that if they can get through that period, it will help them.

In conclusion, Roger Federer added, “Most important for any athlete is understanding your own body. What is pain and what is injury pain? What could result in an injury? Being able to play through that many times is going to happen. Sometimes being sick as well. But also knowing when to step off the gas and give yourself a break. At the end of the day, you need to have smart people around yourself that educate you in that way. And you have to buy into that idea.”