Roger Federer breaks fanboy Zhizhen Zhang’s heart by refusing any chance of a potential return from retirement, goes on to predict big things for the Chinese star at the Shanghai Masters

Roger Federer got facilitated with 'Icon Athlete' award at Shanghai Masters.

Roger Federer breaks fanboy Zhizhen Zhang’s heart by refusing any chance of a potential return from retirement, goes on to predict big things for the Chinese star at the Shanghai Masters

Zhizhen Zhang and Roger Federer (Credits: ATP Tour)

Roger Federer bid tennis a tearful goodbye during the 2022 Laver Cup. Surrounded by his dearest friends and family, the tennis star’s last appearance caused fans around the world to break down over the disbelief of never seeing him perform again. However, life hasn’t stopped for the Swiss maestro after retirement. Recently, he arrived at the Shanghai Masters to be facilitated by the Icon Athlete Award. The 42-year-old greeted fans and talked about his experience at the Shanghai-based tournament. He was also interviewed by his admirer and Chinese tennis player Zhizhen Zhang. The tennis player, who became the first Chinese player to win consecutive matches in Shanghai, asked him a series of questions.

One of the questions asked was whether the 42-year-old would return to play on tour again. The tennis veteran’s answer broke a million hearts as he replied that he is content with being retired. He added that he is turning old now.

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I’m extremely happily retired. For me, there’s no coming back. I had an absolute blast on Tour. I feel like I took the lemon and I squeezed it out ’til the last drop. I gave it all I had and there was none left
Roger Federer said

The 26-year-old player has been a huge fan of Roger Federer. He used this opportunity to express how inspiring the legend has been in his life. He stated that he has always been an admirer of him and has supported him in every match he played. The World No.60 shared how it was such an honor for him to meet the Swiss star.

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Federer, in return, thanked Zhang for his kind words and appreciated him as a “future star in the making.”

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Roger Federer facilitated with the ‘Icon Athlete’ Award

Roger Federer has been collecting accolades for his contribution to the sport of tennis. This time, he touched down in China to be awarded the ‘Icon Athlete’ award. He made history as the first international person to be given this award at the ATP Masters 1000 event.

Roger Federer
Roger Federer (Credits: ATP Tour)

In May, it was announced that the Shanghai Masters would be making a comeback to the ATP Tour calendar after 2019. On this occasion, Federer was invited as a special guest and received the prestigious title of “Icon Athlete”.

The former World No.1 expressed his gratitude at being given this award. He stated that he was very excited to be named Rolex Shanghai Masters Icon Athlete for 2023. 

It’s been beautiful to be home more. Spending time with friends and family has been incredible. Days are long but at the same time, I feel I don’t have enough time because I pack my schedule up. Four kids will do that to you as well. I am a professional driver nowadays, organiser and logistics man. It is a test on another level.
said Federer, further elaborating on his post-retirement lifestyle

Federer recalled some good memories he has with the tournament and mentioned that the tour organizers are close friends of his. The 42-year-old was also happy to interact with his fans and watch the matches.

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