Federer’s coach revealed the behind the scenes of the Swiss retirement: “It was a very exciting decision”

Beyond his 41 years and the injuries that have not left him alone in the last three seasons, the announcement of the retirement of Roger Federer It caused a stir in the world of sports.

It was expected, at least, to say present to the Swiss Indoors Basel, the ATP 500 of his hometown to be held from 24 to 30 October. Or that, at best, he thought he was preparing to arrive in the best possible physical shape Wimbledonthe biggest tournament of his career, and say hello in style.

However, although the common tennis audience didn’t know it until two weeks ago, his right knee threatened that fairy tale dreamed of by Swiss fans. Severin Luthi, his coach since 2007 and one of those who know him best, has given details on the matter.

“He wasn’t making enough progress with his knee. He is 41 years old and facing a demand as big as that of professional tennis, with more than 1,500 matches on the circuit, was not possible. His retirement is a combination of these factors, “he explained. Luthi to journalist Simon Graf.

The Cup washer, From 23 to 25 September at the O2 Arena in London he will put an end to a brilliant career that began more than 24 years ago, after receiving a Wildcard for the 1998 Gstaad ATP and crashing in the first round with the Argentine Lucas Arnold Ker.

The fact of closing such an important stage in his life must have brought out the deepest emotions of the Swiss, as well as of his inner circle. So his coach explained it.

“Sure, it was a very emotional decision.otherwise I would never have been able to achieve so much at this level. There is a lot of passion behind it, but him It has always been very positive. “detailed.

“This has made our life easy. It would have been more difficult if we had seen him devastated. The way he processes all of this helps me. Roger called me two or three times today to ask me how I was doing. He always thinks of the other. She is doing very well with her family. “

Forced to retire due to his right knee, as he feels he can never be competitive on the professional circuit again, the instant question that arises is what role will Federer play in the European Laver Cup team.

“He’ll try to play. We’ll see if he’ll be single or double”, She said Luthi and anticipated the climate that can be experienced in the English capital. “I think the audience reaction will be overwhelming. There will be moments of goosebumps”, Seve has voiced, as the 103 ATP title champion nicknamed his coach.

In turn, he left a message for tennis fans, who in the last few hours have been injured by the farewell of a legend. “People shouldn’t be sad, but happy to have been able to experience this with Roger. We should focus on everything he has achieved, not just the fact that it’s the end of his career.”

Other statements by Severin Luthi

His best memories with Federer: “Spontaneously I would say the last title at Wimbledon (2017), his return to Australia (2017), when no one expected him to win, the Davis Cup victory in Lille (2014), the double Olympic with Stan in 2008 and Paris ( 2009) “.

His legacy: “Many will remember him, first of all, as a good person. His kindness and how he behaved with other players. That is more important than a title. Roger contributed to the point that players treat each other with more respect. He talk to everyone in the locker room, no matter who he is.

“His achievements will soon be forgotten, but I think the human aspect is even more important. What I also find very positive is that he won’t turn his back on tennis. “he concluded.