Federer, you are the most beautiful player I have ever watched: McEnroe. Courtesy: AP
HIGHLIGHTS
- Roger Federer played his last professional tennis match on Saturday
- Roger Federer partnered Rafael Nadal in the Laver Cup 2022
- John McEnroe heaped praises on Federer for his contributions to tennis
Legendary tennis star John McEnroe heaped praise on Roger Federer, who called in a day from the sport after the first day of the Laver Cup in London. Federer played his last match for Team Europe while partnering Rafael Nadal against Team World’s Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe.
Federer finished on the losing side, but got a memorable farewell where he broke down in tears. Nadal also broke down while Federer was speaking to the presenter after the doubles match.
McEnroe, who captained Team World, said that he was blessed to have plied his trade with Federer in the Laver Cup. The veteran also requested the Swiss star to keep contributing to tennis.
“Roger, listen, you know that I think you are a total class act. Everyone does. I feel blessed that I was a part of it, in a tiny little way, never got tired of it. You are the most beautiful player I have ever watched. You absolutely love to play. You loved being part of the sport, both on and off the court,” McEnroe was quoted as saying in a video uploaded on the official Twitter handle of the ATP Tour.
“Thank you for everything you have done in the sport over the last 20 years. You are going to be sorely missed. I hope you stay around the sport in any way. You are the best,” he added.
Federer also conjured praise from 18-time Grand Slam singles winner Martina Navratilova after bidding adieu to tennis.
“Roger, enjoy your life after tennis. Thank you for being a part of this amazing sport, a massive part of it. You made it look so easy. It was a pleasure knowing you, it was a pleasure watching you play. I am looking forward to the next chapter in your life,” Navratilova said.
