Roger Federer’s retirement in September 2022 marked the end of an era for tennis, yet it has stirred rumors and speculations about the potential impact on his legacy. Federer, a revered figure who holds numerous records, including 20 Grand Slam titles and an unprecedented level of sportsmanship, faced significant physical struggles toward the end of his career, particularly with recurring knee injuries. His retirement, while a celebration of his storied career, has led some to wonder if the Swiss star’s post-retirement life could affect how he’s remembered in the tennis world.
The Swiss legend’s career was already challenged in his final years due to repeated knee surgeries, which sidelined him for extended periods. Despite making a few comeback attempts, Federer realized his physical limitations and bid farewell to tennis at the 2022 Laver Cup in a heartfelt event. He left the game alongside Rafael Nadal, Djokovic, and Murray—a symbolic end for a man who redefined tennis. While his contributions to the sport remain undisputed, the intense competition he faced from Nadal and Djokovic, both of whom have since surpassed his Grand Slam tally, has sparked discussions about Federer’s place in the “GOAT” debate.
Additionally, Federer has a robust off-court presence through his business ventures and the Roger Federer Foundation, which has supported educational projects for children in Africa and Switzerland. His philanthropic contributions and influence as a former president of the ATP Player Council have reinforced his image as a figure larger than the sport. Still, as he shifts focus to ventures outside of tennis, maintaining the unparalleled reverence he once commanded among fans and players will be a unique challenge.