In Pictures: Roger Federer encounters lions, cheetahs & more during "unforgettable" African safari, hits the tennis court amid his wildlife adventures
Roger Federer has shared delightful glimpses of his vacation in Africa, chronicling his memorable safari adventure. The Swiss legend also hit the tennis court during his trip, offering a peek of his timeless skills with a few hits of the ball.
Despite retiring from professional tennis, Federer has maintained an active, globe-trotting lifestyle, often making public appearances. Just this year, the Swiss has been spotted attending the Oscars, enjoying a Paris getaway with his wife Mirka, and gracing major tennis events like the US Open, Laver Cup, and Shanghai Masters with his presence.
The 20-time Grand Slam champion recently also made a trip to Africa, a continent that holds special significance for him due to his mother Lynnette's South African heritage. The former World No. 1 has often visited African countries on behalf of his foundation, such as his "emotional" journey to Ethiopia.
During his latest trip, Roger Federer chose to immerse himself in the wildlife, embarking on "unforgettable" safari adventures where he encountered lions, cheetahs, and rhinos while taking in the natural beauty of the landscape.
The 43-year-old also posted a clip of himself hitting the tennis court, showing off his skills from the baseline against a scenic backdrop.
"Unforgettable days in the wild 🐆 🦁 🦏🦒 🌳 🌍," the Swiss captured his Instagram post.
"Roger Federer hit the ball so easily, so naturally, with such elegance; It seemed as if he had never retired" - Carlos Alcaraz on his practice session with the Swiss
Roger Federer displaying his enduring tennis skills during his vacation comes as no surprise, given Carlos Alcaraz's recent remarks about his practice session with the Swiss legend at the 2024 Shanghai Masters.
In an interview with Marca, Alcaraz disclosed that the 43-year-old's shot-making was still so effortless and graceful that it seemed like he hadn't even retired from the sport.
"The timing is there. Roger will always have that quality. He played so easily with me. He told me that it was the first time he had played with that intensity since he retired. He had played tennis, but not with that intensity," Alcaraz said.
"He hit the ball so easily, so naturally, with such elegance. It seemed as if he had never retired. Obviously when the point was extended he was like he was, but the feeling I had was that he never retired," he added.
Carlos Alcaraz disclosed how meaningful it was for him that Federer watched him compete at the Laver Cup. The 21-year-old also cherished the opportunity to speak to the Swiss legend about his career and life when they watched the Shanghai Masters final together.