The 41-year-old Swiss great will compete for the last time this week Laver Cupturns out to Team Europe with Rafa NadalAndy Murray and Djokovic – the three biggest rivals in his glittering 24-year career.
Federer, who won 20 Grand Slam has struggled with injuries in recent years and was last week said he would end his career after the Laver Cup in London.
“His impact on the game is huge, the way he plays, his style, effortless, perfect for the eyes of a tennis coach, player or just a person. tennis fans,” Serbian Djokovic told reporters Wednesday at Tower Bridge in London.
“He left a huge legacy that will last for a very long time.”
Djokovic beat Federer in four major finals including at Wimbledon in 2019, Switzerland’s last Grand Slam final.
“Neither Andy nor I knew it was going to be his last game, his farewell this weekend, so it made the occasion all the more amazing because he was such a big fan. one of the greatest athletes ever to play sport, any sport,” said Djokovic. who is one short of Nadal’s male record of 22.
“His popularity on and off the court speaks for itself. So I’m sure we’re going to have a blast this weekend.”
This week’s Laver Cup will be the first time Federer, Nadal, Murray and Djokovic will compete together in an event since the 2019 Australian Open.
“It’s great that we will have the opportunity to spend some quality time off the court together,” Djokovic told Eurosport.
“We have group dinners and will chat about tennis, sports, life. We don’t usually do that on tour, we have our own team and family, so this is it. quite unique.
“We all want to win and perform well but at the same time because of Roger’s farewell and the opportunity to play alongside some of the biggest opponents of my career, you also want to share the moments. Fun time outside the field.
“Whatsapp groups are what keep us together.”
