Few athletes hold a legendary status in the tennis community. Many rise and fall to the strenuous sport, but Roger Federer is one player who simply fell due to old age. Federer holds 20 grand slam titles and 103 career ATP (Association of Tennis Players) titles. His remarkably long journey came to an end two years ago. At the age of 41, Federer competed in his last game, The Laver Cup, alongside his fellow competitor and long time friend, Rafael Nadal. As the game ended, Federer’s legacy began. Despite retiring, he has established himself as arguably the most successful tennis player in history.

Since Federer retired, he has become a role model for many young tennis players. Saketh Ramakrishnan, who two years ago explained his take on Federer to the Lambert Post, has an updated perspective.

“Federer was special, not just because he won, but because he won in a creative style,” Ramakrishnan explained. “He would always come up with something new. But he was also known to be the most beautiful player to watch on court.”

A die-hard Federer fan, Ramakrishnan has seen Federer as more than just an incredible player. He has adopted Federer’s signature backhand stroke.

 “My entire play style and strokes are modeled off Federer’s,” Ramakrishnan said. “All in all, he has been a large inspiration for me.”

Besides the physical aspect, Federer was remarkable as he continued to compete in front of millions up until the age of 41, which in any sport, is astounding. The average professional athlete in any sport retires at around the age of 30. Federer set a new standard for what it takes to be great.

“I have a poster of Roger Federer on my bedroom wall for motivation,” Ramakrishnan explained.

Federer is missed by the tennis community, but with old age, retirement was expected. Injuries persisted, hindering Federer’s capabilities, but his mental game, wisdom and immeasurable experience enabled him to compete at the highest level amongst some of the youngest and most promising up and coming tennis athletes.

Despite being one of the wealthiest athletes to date, Federer hasn’t let his retirement hinder his ability to achieve more. Federer established the Roger Federer Foundation, enabling children who live in poverty to receive education and a future.

As Roger Federer resigns from his spot as one of the greatest professional tennis athletes, another must rise up. In the eyes of Ramkrishnan, there are many up and coming players who hold the potential to achieve great success.
“There are many up and coming players, but Carlos Alcaraz is one to keep an eye on,” Ramakrishnan said.

Fans can keep up with what happens in the tennis world here. Novak Djokavic, another legend and highly celebrated tennis player, is currently ranked number one, with Carlos Alcaraz following closely behind. As of now, one thing is for sure. Federer is a legend who will likely never be matched in skill, style and longevity. The world will just have to wait to see who will rise up to reach high just like Federer did.