Roger Federer makes special Wimbledon appearance to catch Ben Shelton in action against Denis Shapovalov in 3R blockbuster
Tennis legend Roger Federer made an appearance at the 2024 Wimbledon Championships on Saturday. He watched the third-round clash between Ben Shelton and Denis Shapovalov on Court 1.
Shelton progressed to the next round after a gruelling game, winning 6-7 (7), 6-2, 6-4, 4-6, 6-2. The American will now face the top seed Jannik Sinner in the fourth round on Sunday, July 7.
Federer, who retired from professional tennis in 2022, recently said he was missing the sport and had been planning to visit SW19 at the insistence of his children.
"I'm missing tennis, of course I am, still playing sometimes, not on the Centre Court but I follow it a lot. I miss it, that’s why I sometimes come back to the game, see my friends and sort of my tennis family," Federer said.
"I'm making plans, kids are pushing me there. I’m happy at home but the kids said ‘No we wanna come to Wimbledon this year, you were last year without us!’, so, hey, then we go to Wimbledon," he added.
The Swiss made good on that promise and was spotted in the stands alongside Tim Henman on Saturday. Federer was seen in an elegant grey suit with his All England Club member’s batch attached to the blazer.
The 42-year-old later put on sunglasses to complete a stylish look. Henman, on the other hand, graced the occasion in a blue suit. Wimbledon also shared their video on X:
Mirka Federer was also spotted in the stands earlier this week, watching the second-round clash between Sinner and Matteo Berrettini.
Roger Federer was honoured with standing ovations at Wimbledon 2023
Roger Federer attended Wimbledon in 2023 as well. It was his first appearance at the marquee event after retirement. Accompanied by Mirka in the Royal Box, the Swiss legend received a standing ovation from the audience, including the Princess of Wales. A ceremony was organised to celebrate his illustrious career and exceptional record at Wimbledon.
The 42-year-old had graced the occasion wearing a cream-coloured suit along with a purple striped shirt and a polka dot tie.
Federer won 20 Grand Slams in his illustrious career, eight of which came at the London Major, making him the most successful player at the event. Novak Djokovic holds the second spot for the most Majors on grass, with seven Wimbledon titles.
Federer bid his farewell from the court at the 2022 Laver Cup, where he partnered up with longtime rival and friend Rafael Nadal in doubles.