“I’m back to prove him wrong,” Roger Federer did not hold back his words after being accused of ‘Tanking’ by the tournament director of the Dubai Open
Roger Federer recalls his experience at Dubai Tennis Championships in 2002 when his prize money was withheld by the tournament director.
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Roger Federer (Image Credit: The Economic Times)
Roger Federer is one of those names whom, as a tennis tournament organizer, one would definitely want on the roster during his playing days. The reason was his immense popularity and sheer commitment on the courts. But there was a time when he was on the verge of being fined by the tournament organizer because he believed that the Swiss player showed lack of commitment shown on the court and accusing him of ‘tanking’ in this match.
This incident happened in 2002. Roger Federer was beaten by Rainer Schuettler 6-3, 6-1 in the second round of the Dubai Tennis Championships. However, tournament director Jeff Chapman thought that the Swiss did not play according to his true potential. Hence, he decided to withhold Roger Federer’s $12,450 prize money and appearance bonus and will only be paid if the player does return next year.
The ATP decided to further investigate this case, however, and found no evidence of any wrong doing on the part of the Swiss. The organization ordered Mr. Chapman and Dubai Tennis Championships to pay up the money.
Eminent sports journalist Luigi Gatto shared this story on social media.
“This story on Federer and Dubai,” his caption read.
Roger Federer did return in 2003 and won the tournament.
“I believe I’m the last guy who is not giving his best, so I’m back to prove him (Chapman) wrong, not for the money,” Roger Federer had said after the final.
In 2019, he reminisced about what happened during the match against Schuettler.
“During the match against Schuettler, I played frustrated the last couple of games because I was young and crazy. I was so fed up with my game. I just started to go for big shots. Tournament director was not happy with what he saw. He wanted to fine me, but the tour said, ‘No chance you can do this. Roger tried, so its all good,” he had expressed.
Roger Federer won the men’s singles title eight times in his career and is considered one of the most successful players in this competition’s history.
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Roger Federer is happy to learn Bjorn Borg and John McEnroe re-elected as captains for the Laver Cup 2023
Bjorn Borg and John McEnroe are considered among the greatest players of all time. While Borg won 11 Grand Slam titles, McEnroe won seven titles in his career. However, more than their individual records, they are known for their great and fierce rivalry. Hence, both the players get the chance to renew their rivalry as they take on each other as captains of their respective sides in the Laver Cup.
Bjorn Borg is the captain of Team Europe, which comprises of the best male tennis players across the continent of Europe. On the other hand, John McEnroe is the captain of Team World, which comprises the best male tennis players from all over the world barring Europe.
Roger Federer who is a key figure in the organization of this event every year is delighted to have both the captains back in the fold leading their respective teams in Vancouver for the Laver Cup 2023.
“John and Bjorn are two of the most iconic figures in tennis history, and their knowledge and passion for the sport is unparalleled.Having them back as captains is fantastic news for everyone involved in the Laver Cup, and I’m sure they will once again bring their unique brand of competitiveness and charisma to the event,” he further expressed.
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Abhar Indorkar
(451 Articles Published)