In 1998, Roger Federer‘s pro journey began, roaring to life in 2001 with his Milan title. The 2003 Wimbledon marked his first Grand Slam, followed by 19 more, each a chapter defined by his signature forehand’s grace. For 24 years, he captivated millions, filling stadiums like Wimbledon’s 15,000-strong center court. Years later, during the 2022 Laver Cup, his farewell was bittersweet. After enriching the sport for that long, what can a champion ask for? Probably, the love that the fans have showered on him throughout his career. And on that last day, that was ample.

Federer played in front of a sold-out O2 arena of 17,500 fans who expressed their appreciation for the maestro with a standing ovation. Federer returned the favor with flashes of brilliance. Although his movement on the court was not as swift as it used to be, his hands spoke as ever. Those elegant forehands graced the arena even at the sunset-point of his career amid cheering fans who have always been there for him. Think of his 2020 ‘Match in Africa 6’.

The match, held on February 7 of that year at the Cape Town Stadium, paired Federer and Bill Gates against Rafael Nadal and Trevor Noah. It was witnessed by 51,954 fans, the highest attendance ever recorded for a tennis match at that time. Leaving all this love behind, Federer said goodbye to the court, but his mind never left. Now, looks like that strategic mind, sharpened by countless matches, dreams of a return. Speaking to L’Equipe on April 12, 20x Grand Slam winner explicitly talked about coming back to his beloved sport.

“I’d like to play some tennis again. I’m done with golf at the moment; I’ve been playing a lot!” Federer said. After holding a racket at the age of eight, it’s hard to let go, right? “No, really, I’d like to get back into training a little, two to three times a week. And I hope to do exhibitions again, fill stadiums around the world. Nothing planned yet, but I miss it,” Federer admitted.

And it only made sense. During his reign, Roger’s popularity was well-noted across the globe. The Swiss maestro remains a prominent voice in tennis and especially surrounding the Laver Cup – the tournament he devised and created in honour of Australian great Rod Laver.

While Federer wants to return to the court, he acknowledges the challenge of returning after three years away from competitive play. “I’ve hardly played since my retirement; my body and mind needed a break. I’ve played a little with my kids, but I’d like to get back into it seriously,” he said. But what has Roger been up to during his retirement?

Federer shared, he cherishes family time and traveling. Reflecting on the past three years, the Swiss maestro said, “I have hardly played since my retirement. I’ve been very busy traveling and working on my foundation with my family. We went to South Africa to visit school projects to help children get a better education.”

If you didn’t know, Federer’s foundation has been working to promote early education for kids in South Africa. Since 2010, it has transformed lives, reaching over 300,000 children by providing quality preschool education. Earlier this year, in February, Federer was spotted in South Africa with Springbok rugby captain Siya Kolisi. Together, they highlighted the foundation’s incredible work in getting kids into schools and keeping them there.

Alongside, Federer is excited with the idea of a possible return, as he phrased it, “During my travels, I’ll get back into it. And maybe you’ll see me on the court again soon!” Notably, his biggest rival and friend, Rafael Nadal, retired last year. So, can fans expect an exciting matchup at an exhibition between the two? Only time will tell! But he seems to be already making strides to get back in on the tennis action. The 43-year-old recently joined a group of wheelchair tennis players to give them an exciting afternoon!

Roger Federer brings excitement to the wheelchair tennis players

Earlier this month, Roger Federer took a break from his Monte Carlo vacation to surprise a group of wheelchair tennis players at an event organized by ON. The players were completely caught off guard when Federer stepped onto the court. Giuliano Carnovali, one of the players present, shared his exhilarating experience on Instagram.

He described the moment: “We were out there playing tennis when suddenly Roger walks onto the court. His Aura is Insane. I completely freaked out.” Federer’s humility and warmth left a lasting impression, as Carnovali noted, “He was the nicest guy. He said hi to everyone, shook hands, took pictures, and then started feeding balls like a tennis coach.”

Carnovali was amazed by Federer’s dedication to each player as well: “He made time for every single one of us, hitting with about 10 people on our court for at least 20 minutes. And he did the same on maybe six different courts.”

Reflecting on the encounter, Carnovali further added, “It was incredible to see how humble, friendly, and truly authentic he is. They always say ‘never meet your idols, you’ll be disappointed.’ But this was the complete opposite. It was more than I ever imagined. I’m still shaking. I’m thrilled.”

Now, with the prospect of Federer taking the court again, possibly at the exhibitions, the excitement is palpable. Will he make a comeback appearance anytime soon? Share your thoughts in the comments below!