By Richard Pagliaro | Sunday, December 4, 2022
In this holiday season of giving, Roger Federer is dreaming of giving back.
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The 41-year-old Swiss superstar closed the curtain on his brilliant career in a tearful Laver Cup doubles Fedal farewell alongside rival Rafael Nadal.
Throughout his career, Federer touched fans all over the world.
Central to his post-retirement plans: Thanking his fans.
At a recent appearance in Tokyo for his apparel sponsor, Uniqlo, Federer shared his plan to eventually play exhibitions in places he's never played before in comments published by Gazzetta dello Sport.
The 20-time Grand Slam champion said when his knee is strong enough he plans to play a Gratitude Tour to thank his fans for their years of loyal support. Federer cautioned his knee not is "still not in perfect condition" and said his doctors advised him to wait a few months to assess his condition.
"I want to go and play in places where I have never been and thank the fans who have supported me throughout my career, I want nothing else," said Federer in comments published by Gazetta dello Sport. "My intention is also to organize exhibitions but it is still too early, unfortunately. My knee is still not in perfect condition and I have to be patient.
"The doctors advised me to be cautious and wait a few months to see how the situation evolves, and this applies not only to tennis but also to other sports that I would like to practice, but I have to go slowly."
Following his appearance in Tokyo, Federer flew to New York where he sat courtside at the Barclays Center for a Brooklyn Nets game. Federer, who grew up with a Michael Jordan poster on his bedroom walll, said his body's message over the past year has been clear.
"My body's message to me lately has been clear," Federer said. "I have played more than 1,500 matches over 24 years. Now I must recognize when it is time to end my competitive career."
Stepping away from the pro Tour has afforded Federer more family time and opportunity to consider his options.
The father of two sets of twins envisions post-retirement adventure taking his kids to Africa. Federer's mother, Lynette, was born in South Africa. The Roger Federer Foundation has supported educational and youth programs in Africa.
"I would also like to take my children to Africa," Federer said. "Now that I've retired, we can also organize a little more adventurous holidays."
Photo credit: Getty