'There are a lot of players trying to emulate Roger Federer', says German champion

Roger Federer is not only one of the greatest players of all time, but also one of the most appreciated and popular sportsmen ever. Its longevity - combined with elegant and functional tennis - have contributed to making the Swiss phenomenon a global icon that has transcended its sport. Numerous colleagues from other sports have made no secret of their admiration for the 20-time Grand Slam champion, who will remain in the pits until 2021 after double surgery on his right knee. Footballer Toni Kroos can also be counted among the supporters of the former World number 1. The Real Madrid and Germany star spoke on the podcast 'Einfach mal Luppen', where he recalled his first meeting with Roger in 2015. The German midfielder loves Federer not only as a player, but also for his attitude towards life.

Kroos on Roger Federer

"Roger Federer teaches everyone to be themselves. Today, he has a lot of players trying to emulate him, just as in my sport," Toni Kroos said. "It was special to me, it was the first time I met Roger Federer. I have to honestly say I forgot myself, I forgot Toni Kroos, because I was really a bit nervous. That was always one of the things. I was happy at first, not that it was not nice. I was looking forward to it because I thought he was relatively closer to me. Like a preview of the meeting for me," Kroos added. The 20-time Grand Slam winner was last seen in action the 2020 Australian Open in January where he was knocked out of the competition in the semi-final by winner Novak Djokovic. Although, he suffered an injury setback amidst the coronavirus pandemic in June, he has confirmed that he won’t be retiring before 2021 as he has committed himself in participating in the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. In an interview with SportsPanorama, Federer again clarified the retirement rumours, claiming the media has been speculating about it for more than a decade. “Since I won the French Open in 2009, the media has been chopping on this topic. But it is already clear that I am at the end of my career,” said Federer. “I can not say what will be in two years. That’s why I plan year after year. I’m still happy right now. But when the cogwheels don’t grip anymore, I stop.” Federer’s decision to forego the 2020 season has paved the way for Djokovic and Rafael Nadal to stake their claim on the two Grand Slams that, as of now, are expected to be held this year.

from Tennis World USA https://ift.tt/3j9Ml6q