Roger Federer has revealed that he met Andy Murray shortly before the Brit’s doubles match but couldn’t extend his stay for his former rival’s Wimbledon farewell on Center Court due to obligations.
The 3-time Singles Slam champion Murray’s final showing at Wimbledon didn’t go as planned as he was forced to pull out from the singles after not recovering from surgery on time and he alongside brother Jamie also lost their R1 doubles match on Thursday.
After getting eliminated from the doubles, former ATP #1 Andy Murray was honored during a center court ceremony and multiple tennis greats paid tribute to the Brit including 20-time Grand Slam champion Federer who offered his respect through a video that was played on the big screen on Wimbledon Center Court.
Murray was showered with tributes in the company of some of tennis’ greats including John McEnroe, Novak Djokovic, Iga Swiatek and Martina Navratilova who made their way to court to attend the event while the legendary Sue Barker came out of broadcasting retirement to do the interviews.
There were rumors that 8-time Wimbledon champion Federer would also spectate the match and attend the post-match celebrations but he couldn’t ensure his presence in the goodbye party of Murray.
However, the legendary Swiss confirmed that he did see Murray before his double’s bout and because of a clash in schedule couldn’t stay longer for the farewell ceremony planned on the Center Court.
“I wish I could’ve been there last night, but I already had obligations because I didn’t know exactly how it was all going to play out,” he said.
“I took an earlier flight on Tuesday to be here in case he played his singles and, as I boarded the flight, there was, ‘Andy’s not playing singles’. I was on standby, then unfortunately last night I couldn’t be there.
“I quickly went to see him before the match and I could see Andy was extremely nervous. Obviously Wimbledon means so much to him and his family and his team. I watched all the highlights. Amazing for him.
“He was there for my retirement at the Laver Cup at the O2 and I was so happy that he was around.
“I hope I get to see Andy, and what an incredible career. I loved played against him, even though he beat me probably 20 times. He’s been terrific, and of course it had to be emotional yesterday [Thursday].”
Murray’s Wimbledon career though officially is not quite over yet as he will participate in mixed doubles with compatriot Emma Raducanu on Saturday and Federer has hinted that he could be in attendance.