Roger Federer played with a knee injury in the Laver Cup.
Roger Federer played as part of the European team in the Laver Cup. EPA / AOP
Roger Federer played his last tennis match against the toughest competitor of his career Rafael Nadal next in doubles at the Laver Cup exhibition tournament in London.
The Swiss played 1,750 professional matches in his 25-year career. The last of them ended in defeat.
In the tie-break of the show match, the tennis legends lost to the American pair of sets 1–2 For Jack Sock and To Frances Tiafoe. After the game, Federer cried and hugged other players.
– This has been a perfect trip. I would do it again, Federer said in his speech, holding back tears.
– It’s been a great day. I’m happy, not sad. I’m glad I made it this far.
Teammate Nadal also couldn’t help but tear up as the pair listened by Ellie Goulding musical performance at the farewell ceremony. Former and current tennis players and Federer’s family were also present to honor the end of a remarkable tennis career
Federer had last played tennis at last year’s Wimbledon. Since then, he has suffered from injuries that have prevented the 41-year-old from returning to the field.
The fact that Federer was only able to play doubles was an indication of his current condition. Due to the knee injury, his movement was no longer as smooth.
The last match was witnessed by 17,500 spectators at the O2 Areena. Federer said he wanted the atmosphere to be fun rather than funereal.
According to the BBC, the Laver Cup was already sold out before, but Federer’s decision to cancel raised ticket prices in resale to more than 1,000 pounds, or about 1,120 euros. Initially, ticket prices ranged from £40 to £510.
The fiercest rivals in tennis both broke down in tears. EPA / AOP