Marking the 20th anniversary of his first appearance at the French Open with a win on Sunday, Roger Federer has no intentions of stepping away from the sport in the near future.
The 37-year-old, who is the second oldest player in the top 100 on the ATP Tour, disposed of Italy’s Lorenzo Sonego in straight sets. Recording his 60th first round win in a major and his 343rd overall. This year is the first time he has played at Roland Garros since 2015 after missing three editions for various reasons before having a change of heart.
“I’m very happy I took that decision, because I enjoyed Madrid, I enjoyed Rome. I’m happy to be here (In Paris).” Federer commented about his return to the clay.
“The reception I got today was crazy, was really nice to see a full stadium for a first round like this. It was a beauty. So I’m very, very happy.”
Given his credentials, Federer could easily walk away from the sport now with few regrets. He has 101 ATP titles to his name, including a record 20 at grand slam level. His career prize money stands at just over $123.6 million, which is the second highest in history after Novak Djokovic. That tally doesn’t include endorsements such as his 10-year deal with Uniqlo that was signed last year. Valued by Forbes Magazine to be worth in the region of $300 million.
So what motivates Federer to keep playing? In his eyes, it is simply his love for the sport.
“It’s not only about the Grand Slams. Of course I like them, but I also skipped this (French Open) tournament, let’s not forget, the last few years. So as important as it is, I love the ATP Tour.” He explained.
“I love the other 1000s, 500s, 250s, you name it, Hopman Cup, Laver Cup, World Tour Finals. There are so many other cool events out there that I want to be part of, or exhibition matches or foundation matches.”
Federer’s longevity on the tour is backed by his wife Mirka. A former Swiss player who reached 76th in the world during her career and played in the Hopman Cup alongside Federer. Together they have four children who are all under the age of 10.
“The travelling, to me, doesn’t bother me too much. I feel like I have a lot of friends around the world, so it’s nice to see them, as well. I think that’s also helpful, going to places and getting to see my old friends I only see maybe once a year. I’m just very happy how things are going on the tour, and my family loves it, too. They are okay with it. That helps a little bit, too.”
Despite being a prominent feature whenever there is a debate about who is the greatest of all time (GOAT), Federer is by no means a heavy favourite in Paris. Considering he has only played two competitive tournaments on the clay since 2017 prior to this week.
“It’s nice to be an outsider. That’s how I feel.” He said. “I know when Wimbledon comes around, sure, I’ll be probably a higher favorite. That’s okay, too, I’m happy that I’m there where I am.”
“For many years it was either, if I don’t win, it’s a disappointment, and you explain yourself in the press room. People, like, don’t understand why you lost.”
Federer will still be the overwhelming favourite heading into his next match. In the second round he takes on Germany’s Oscar Otte. A world No.145 lucky loser who is yet to break into the world’s top 100.
“It will be a big match for me,” Otte told AFP news. “I am looking forward to it.”
The last time Federer lost to a player ranked outside the 100 at a grand slam was Sergiy Stakhovsky at the 2013 Wimbledon Championships.