World of sport reacts to Roger Federer’s retirement from tennis by revealing the player who’made him a tennis world champion’
Updated
Australia’s Roger Federer has announced he will retire from the game at the end of the year.
The 34-year-old was widely regarded as one of the greatest ever players in the game, breaking several records as he went from junior to World No.1.
He was named the Male Athlete of the Year in 2009.
Federer’s last match ended in a shock defeat by world number one Rafael Nadal on Tuesday night at the ATP World Tour Finals in London.
Fellow world number two Novak Djokovic won the title for a second time on Friday night, with two sets to spare and a break of serve.
The first day of play for the men’s singles started in London, with Federer’s opponent the 16th seed Kei Nishikori.
Nishikori started the first set 1-2, with Federer then winning four of his five service points to take the set.
Nishikori went on to complete a 5-0 6-3 6-4 6-4 6-4 win over Djokovic in the second set.
“I would like to thank (Federer) for all of his efforts and for the years he helped to make me a world champion. Thank you for your support,” said the Japanese player, who is now ranked No. 4.
As he left the stage, Federer said: “I am so proud of all of my fans, and I believe tennis is the best sport there is.”
It was a message that was echoed by the crowds at the ATP World Tour Finals in London.
Sydney’s Naomi Osaka led the way, with six wins across the opening two days.
“I want to thank Roger Federer because he made me a good tennis player,” said Osaka.