Chris Evert mesmerized by Roger Federer's 'still beautiful' tennis technique as Swiss whips out his racket again at Laver Cup 2024
Chris Evert has admired Roger Federer playing tennis ahead of the 2024 Laver Cup in Berlin, two years after retiring at the same arena. Despite hanging up his racket professionally, the 20-time Grand Slam champion remained connected to tennis.
After dishing out mixed performances due to his persisting knee issue in 2021, Federer became the oldest man at 40 to reach the Wimbledon quarterfinals that year, surpassing Ken Rosewall. The former World No.1 dropped below 50 for the first time in June 2022 and was unranked the following month. The legendary Swiss returned to the court for the 2022 Laver Cup. But he and Rafael Nadal lost to Jack Socks and Frances Tiafoe, with the Swiss retiring at his 1750th match on the tour.
Two years after retirement, Federer's contribution still resonates in the tennis world. He was recently spotted playing at the Laver Cup arena before the main event which begins on Friday, September 20. The Olympic singles silver medalist whipped his racket, combining stunning forehand and backhand shots, catching the attention of the 18-time Chris Evert.
The 18-time Grand Slam champion took to X to write a two-word note in admiration of the 43-year-old's skills.
"Still beautiful!" she wrote.
In response, American actor and comedian Ben Stiller wrote he could watch the Swiss play all day.
"Mesmerizing. Could watch this all day."
Evert commented in response:
"right?????"
Earlier this year, in a fun tennis session with her son Alexander Mill, Chris Evert observed him emulating Federar's one-hand backhand, inside-in forehand shots, and footwork.
"Guess who Alex's favorite player/ idol was? alalexmill122 @rogerfederer," her Instagram caption wrote.
Evert was considered one of the greatest players, having held the World No.1 rank for 260 weeks. She retired in 1989.
Chris Evert on Roger Federer - "He was the epitome of a champion"
Federer has amassed love and respect for his tennis skills and also for his calm demeanor and grace on the court. When he announced retirement at the 2022 Laver Cup, Evert was quick to pen a heartfelt note for the legendary Swiss.
The 69-year-old also wished him to stay as close to the sport even after retirement.
"He was the epitome of a champion; class, grace, humility, beloved by everyone…and he elegantly mastered the sport like no other…Good luck to you, @rogerfederer don’t go too far!" her tweet read.
The Swiss also made his way into people's hearts for his philanthropic nature. He established the Roger Federer Foundation in 2013, working to help deprived children with education and sports facilities, among other charitable works.