Roger Federer, the tennis legend shared insights into his life post-retirement, emphasizing his children’s growing interest in tennis.
In a recent interview, he discloses that, his nine years old twin sons, Rafael Nadal’s Academy in Mallorca, and his 14-year-old twin daughters trained at John McEnroe’s Academy in East Hampton.
Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal have been one of the biggest on-court rivals, but share a friendship off the court which has only deepened over the years. Federer, who attended the opening ceremony of Nadal’s academy jokingly mentioned that he might send his kids to his academy in Mallorca.
Federer mentioned in a recent interview with the Wall Street Journal that his children have developed some interest in tennis. The 9-year-old twin boys and 14-year-old twin girls have been training in different academies worldwide, including Nadal’s.
He sent his twin sons to Nadal’s Academy for a few days during the summer for a training camp.
“All four children love it. The girls didn’t like it at first, but the better they get, the more they enjoy it and are now playing points.”
-Roger Federer in an interview with Wall Street Journal
Federer himself has been attempting to teach his children the sport, acknowledging the unique dynamic of being both a father and a former player.
“When I have time – and I try to take the time – I go on the court with them and try to teach them something. It’s obviously an interesting dynamic, because I’m the dad, and not a former player. It is what it is.”
-Roger Federer in an interview with Wall Street Journal
Roger Federer’s proposal to co-own the 2017 Australian Open title with Nadal
Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal met each other in nine Grand Slam finals, the last encounter of which came at the 2017 Australian Open.
The last match of their epic rivalry was truly entertaining where both gave their best to win the title. However, Federer emerged victorious with a 6-4, 3-6, 6-1, 3-6, 6-3 win. But, the Swiss maestro expressed willingness to share the title with Nadal, acknowledging the intensity of their battle and the absence of draws in tennis.
“Tennis is a tough sport, there’s no draws. But, if there was going to be one I would have been very happy to accept a draw tonight and share it with Rafa. Really.”
-Roger Federer after winning the 2017 Australian Open