‘More Talents in My Hands Than My Feet’: Why Roger Federer Picked Tennis Over Soccer

As much as Roger Federer put in scores of hours of hard-work to develop his game over the past two decades, there is no doubt in saying that he has got equipped with natural talent and intuition for tennis.

Typically, when a child wants to get into a sport professionally, the decision would be taken at a very young age and most parents wouldn’t have given a chance to their kids to explore other sports before finalizing.

Excerpts from ‘The Master’ where Roger Federer explains his decision to choose tennis

But, Federer’s parents, who wanted their son to be the decision-maker when it comes to taking up a professional sport, allowed him to juggle between soccer and tennis. In his biography written by renowned sports journalist Christopher Clarey, Federer explained why he preferred tennis over soccer.

“I had more talent in my hands than I did in my feet. I wanted to have the victory or defeat in my own hands without having to depend on others”. 

The last line summarizes Roger’s strive for perfection and how he wanted to have some sort control over the result. Federer made the decision at the age of twelve and never looked back since.

Tennis – Wimbledon – All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, London, Britain – July 1, 2021 Switzerland’s Roger Federer in action during his second round match against France’s Richard Gasquet REUTERS/Paul Childs

‘The Master’ captures these stories on Federer’s early life beautifully. Told sometimes by people around him and sometimes by the Swiss Maestro himself, the book is a wholesome peek into Federer’s mindset.

Federer will likely make a comeback in second-half of 2022 ATP tour

Coming to tennis, the 20-time Grand Slam champion is currently in training mode as he intends to make a comeback on the ATP tour next year. While the exact tournament at which Federer plans to enter is unknown, one can safely say that his target will be Wimbledon.

Last year, Federer made it to the quarter-finals at SW19, where he lost to Hubert Hurkacz in straight sets. Since the defeat, the Swiss star announced that he would undergo a third knee surgery as he wants to stay fit beyond retirement.

Tennis – French Open – Roland Garros, Paris, France – June 5, 2021 Switzerland’s Roger Federer in action during his third round match against Germany’s Dominik Koepfer REUTERS/Christian Hartmann

While the scale of success in Roger Federer’s comeback cannot be predicted, it will be a delight to see him back on court for the latter half of this year’s ATP season.

Also read: ‘Say Something Mate You are the Captain’: Dan Evans Trolls Liam Broady at ATP Cup 2022

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