‘Didn’t Get Fancy Coaching’- When Bill Gates Used Roger Federer’s Example to Instill an Important Lesson on Dedication

Roger Federer, born to Robert Federer and Lynette Federer, had little to no connection to the sports world. Apart from the fact that his parents enjoyed tennis, there was no link. Though his parents did invest in bringing the taste of different sports, such as squash and basketball, to their son’s palate. But at the same time, they were not quite sure of him pursuing tennis as a profession.

However, the 20 times Grand Slam champion followed his heart. As a result of which, now he is a part of the big three of this generation. He is an inspiration to many, including Bill Gates. Speaking of which, the American business magnate took his example in 2020 to advocate a lesson in his blog GatesNotes.

What did Gates learn from Roger Federer?

Gates, who once collaborated with Federer for a charity match, wrote, “Here’s the surprising part about Roger Federer’s greatness. As a young kid, he didn’t focus on tennis and didn’t get fancy coaching or strength training.”

“He played a wide range of different sports… and didn’t start playing competitive tennis until he was a teenager. Even then, his parents discouraged him from taking it too seriously,” Gates added. He concluded that this wealth of experience is what has helped Federer reach the pinnacle of his chosen field, just like it helped him.

Roger Federer debuted in the year 1998 and claimed his first Grand Slam trophy in 2003 at Wimbledon. Also in the same season, he achieved the ranking of world no.1 and has held it for a record period of a total of 310 weeks.

Read more: Roger Federer Enjoys a ‘Meteoric’ Rise in Brand Value As He Gets Spotted Wearing an Insane Six-Figure Worth Rolex Watch

At 27, he passed the legendary Pete Sampras in terms of major victories and currently has a pile of 103 singles career titles to his name. Further, the Swiss maestro also won a gold and silver medal in the Olympics.

Federer’s much-awaited return to the tour

The former World No.1 walked out of the circuit after last year’s Wimbledon to undergo surgery on his injured knee. Since then fans are eagerly awaiting his return.

Watch this story: Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Serena Williams, and Others In The Greatest Comebacks in Tennis

Federer has signed up for the upcoming Laver cup and Swiss Indoors Basel. Though many believe, just like his ranking, his form has taken a serious hit. Therefore, his comeback, similar to the legend Serena Williams, could well be his farewell. However, there are others who still believe in him, and are rooting for the unranked 40-year-old to win Grand Slams in the 2023 season.