Tennis legend Roger Federer recently thrilled fans worldwide by announcing his plans to return to the court — not in full competition, but through a series of exhibition matches aimed at filling stadiums one more time. The news has sparked excitement across the tennis community, and former world No. 1 Andy Roddick was among the first to react, offering both heartfelt reflections and a touch of humor.
Speaking on Federer’s announcement, Roddick acknowledged the long and difficult road Federer has traveled since his final matches. “I don’t think people fully understood how bad it was at the end of his career,” Roddick said on a podcast. “Not just trying to play tennis, but just trying to get through the daily grind of life and kids.” Roddick emphasized that seeing Federer healthy enough now to contemplate an on-court farewell is a deeply positive development, not only for Federer himself but also for the fans who have long awaited a proper goodbye.
Roddick, known for his quick wit, joked about being willing to step in if Federer needed an opponent, but admitted the obvious solution would be a Federer-Nadal matchup.
“I’m ready to go out there and take a beating,” Roddick said playfully. “But obviously, the world would be screaming for Rafa and Roger to fill stadiums “If they needed an umpire to make some wise cracks I’m the guy for that- maybe! But I don’t know who Roger’s gonna play, but I hope it’s Rafa.”
The idea of a Federer vs. Nadal exhibition series is tantalizing for fans, given their iconic rivalry and enduring friendship. While Federer has yet to confirm who he will play, Roddick summed up the feelings of many. As the tennis world awaits further announcements, one thing is clear — the opportunity to see Federer grace the court once again is something no one wants to miss.
Tennis legend Roger Federer recently thrilled fans worldwide by announcing his plans to return to the court — not in full competition, but through a series of exhibition matches aimed at filling stadiums one more time. The news has sparked excitement across the tennis community, and former world No. 1 Andy Roddick was among the first to react, offering both heartfelt reflections and a touch of humor.
Speaking on Federer’s announcement, Roddick acknowledged the long and difficult road Federer has traveled since his final matches. “I don’t think people fully understood how bad it was at the end of his career,” Roddick said on a podcast. “Not just trying to play tennis, but just trying to get through the daily grind of life and kids.” Roddick emphasized that seeing Federer healthy enough now to contemplate an on-court farewell is a deeply positive development, not only for Federer himself but also for the fans who have long awaited a proper goodbye.
Roddick, known for his quick wit, joked about being willing to step in if Federer needed an opponent, but admitted the obvious solution would be a Federer-Nadal matchup.
“I’m ready to go out there and take a beating,” Roddick said playfully. “But obviously, the world would be screaming for Rafa and Roger to fill stadiums “If they needed an umpire to make some wise cracks I’m the guy for that- maybe! But I don’t know who Roger’s gonna play, but I hope it’s Rafa.”
The idea of a Federer vs. Nadal exhibition series is tantalizing for fans, given their iconic rivalry and enduring friendship. While Federer has yet to confirm who he will play, Roddick summed up the feelings of many. As the tennis world awaits further announcements, one thing is clear — the opportunity to see Federer grace the court once again is something no one wants to miss.
