Roger Federer, widely regarded as one of the greatest tennis players of all time, captivated fans for over two decades with his elegance, precision, and effortless playstyle. With 20 Grand Slam titles, a record-breaking career, and an unmatched legacy, he seemed almost invincible. However, behind the scenes, Federer faced immense struggles in his final years on tour—battles that remained largely hidden from the public eye. From injuries and surgeries to the emotional toll of aging in a sport dominated by younger players, Federer’s last chapter was filled with challenges that tested his resilience like never before.While Federer had managed to stay relatively injury-free for most of his career, his body began showing signs of wear and tear as he entered his late 30s. In 2016, he suffered a major knee injury that forced him to take an extended break from the sport. Many feared it could be the beginning of the end for the Swiss maestro, but Federer stunned the world by returning stronger than ever in 2017.
That year, he won the Australian Open in a thrilling five-set final against his long-time rival Rafael Nadal. He followed it up with another Wimbledon title, proving that he still had the ability to dominate the sport even in his mid-30s. However, his resurgence masked deeper concerns about his physical condition. Federer himself admitted that his knee had never been the same after surgery, but his sheer determination allowed him to continue competing at the highest leveAs Federer approached his 40s, his recovery process became more difficult. Tennis is an unforgiving sport that demands peak physical fitness, and the recovery time needed between matches increased significantly for Federer. While younger players could bounce back after grueling five-set matches, Federer found it increasingly challenging to sustain his level of performance over consecutive rounds.
In 2020, Federer underwent another knee surgery, forcing him to miss most of the season. The COVID-19 pandemic provided an unexpected pause, giving him extra time to rehabilitate. However, when he returned to the tour in 2021, it was evident that he was not the same player. His movement, once his greatest weapon, appeared restricted, and he struggled to keep up with the pace of the younger generation. Roger Federer’s final years on tour were a testament to his resilience, love for the game, and determination to fight until the very end. While injuries ultimately forced him to retire, his legacy as one of the greatest athletes in history remains intact. His farewell was emotional, but it was also a celebration of a career that brought joy to millions. Federer’s struggles in his later years only made his story more inspiring, proving that even legends must face challenges—but true greatness lies in how they handle them.