The German writer, who recently wrote a biography on Roger Federer titled “Roger Federer: Phenomenon. Enthusiast. Philantrhopist”, has closely followed the 20-time Major winner throughout his career. Needless to say, he had several anecdotes to share during the podcast.
Simon Graf first touched on Roger Federer’s heartbreaking five-set loss to arch-rival Rafael Nadal in the 2009 Australian Open final, in the aftermath of which Federer was reduced to tears. Graf opined that Federer should have won the match given the way he played, but then claimed the Swiss is not a great loser.
Roger Federer’s undisputed reign at the top of the sport had been interrupted just a few months before that emotional Australian Open. Rafael Nadal had started to get the better of him in most important matches, and the loss in Melbourne was the culmination of a series of setbacks for the Swiss.
People got used to see Roger Federer winning, even a little bored: Simon Graf
Simon Graf was then asked his views about Roger Federer’s influence on the Swiss media. The German responded that Federer has been the most popular figure in Switzerland for years, and that his stature has only become bigger with time.
While Roger Federer is easily one of the greatest tennis players of all time, he is also considered among the biggest icons the world has ever seen in any sport. And Graf believes a part of that has to do with how well Federer has been able to manage his relationship with the media, and how he makes sure his image is protected at all times.
Roger Federer had to give back to the people, even though he couldn’t play well: Simon Graf
Simon Graf then shared an anecdote about Roger Federer’s behavior off the court, dating back to 2013. Federer was suffering from a serious back injury throughout that season, but his lowest point came when he was upset early by Germany’s Daniel Brands at the Gstaad Open.
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