Roger Federer spoke on the sidelines of the Laver Cup about advice to the young generation of tennis professionals.
If young players on the tennis tour could wish for a mentor, it would certainly be Roger Federer in many cases. The Swiss experienced everything on the pitch that most juniors dream of. Federer is not thinking about a career as a coach, but even two years after retiring, he is always aware of what is happening on the tour.
On the sidelines of the Laver Cup, the maestro hit a few balls with the German Christopher Thies (15) from Germany and the Swiss Noelia Manta (15) as part of the presentation of his new racket series from Wilson. The juniors are important to Federer. “Giving advice is a great thing. When you’re young on tour, it’s usually all about taking. As you get older, you realize that giving makes you much happier and brings more satisfaction,” Federer said.
Federer: “Don’t blame anyone”
When asked what advice he would give to young players, the 20-time Grand Slam winner said: “I have received so much advice. So much information can sometimes cloud your mind. If I were to give juniors one piece of advice, it would be that they are 50 percent their coach. Of course, you always have people around you: your parents, your coach, your fitness trainer. They will all tell you what you should do. But at some point you’ll be alone on the court and deep down you’ll remember what you think is right because at some point your knee might hurt or your mind wanders or your forehand doesn’t work. But you can’t show that to your opponent or tell anyone else. So you have to find out for yourself. Nobody else can solve this for you at this moment,” said Federer.
He added: “I did well when I was young. I didn’t believe everything my coach told me. I knew I had to take responsibility. It is your fault if you lose and also your fault if you win. That’s a good thing. Juniors sometimes blame someone or something. No, it’s up to you. I always think to myself: Don’t blame anyone. Do your best, prepare as best you can. If that didn’t work. Okay, go back to the training field and come back stronger.”
Previous post
Shanghai Masters 2024: Everything about cancellations, prize money & TV
