Who would be unaware of Roger Federer’s love for grass courts? The tennis legend has danced his way to greatness across all three surfaces. But, his heart truly belongs to the lush green of the grass courts. The Swiss Maestro’s passion for this surface is well-documented, and his track record speaks volumes. Most recently, Federer once again professed his grass-court favoritism in a heartwarming moment as he received another accolade.

The 20-time Grand Slam champion went to an event hosted by Dartmouth College’s athletic club on June 9. He was also awarded an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree by the Ivy League college for his $100 million philanthropy work. As the president of the Roger Federer Foundation, Federer’s charity efforts have focused on improving education in Southern Africa and Switzerland. While he admitted to feeling nervous during the event, he reiterated about wanting to play on green surfaces and aligned it with the college color.

Speaking at the session, Roger said that it must be his destiny to stand among ‘The Big Green.’ The term ‘Big Green’ originates from the athletic uniforms of university students, where green has been a primary color since the 19th century. “I am happy to be here. I am happy to be with you, here on the green. As you might have heard, Grass is my favorite surface. The Big Green, it must be destiny.” This is certainly not the first time Roger Federer has expressed his love for green courts.

In 2018, Federer had revealed why he loved playing on the grass. Speaking after the 4th-round win at Wimbledon, he had disclosed the secrecy of his preference for the green courts. “There is always the occasional approach shot that the opponent has to come in because you’re dragging him in, he doesn’t hit and go back. Same for me. ” 

The tennis legend further highlighted the uncertainty of the surface that intrigues him. “All of a sudden there’s a short ball, you come in, there’s passing shots, lobs, dinks, and stuff. That’s why I like playing on the grass,” Roger had said. His desire for the surface can also be understood from the fact that of the 20 Grand Slam victory, the majority 8 have come on grass, earning him the moniker “greatest grass court player of all time”.

Well, you will be surprised to know that this isn’t the first time that the tennis legend has been awarded a doctorate degree.

When Roger Federer became Dr. Federer!

Roger Federer’s incredible performances on the tennis courts have long captivated fans around the world. His skills and charm have earned him accolades far beyond the sports arena, including prestigious honorary degrees. Back in 2017, Federer added a new title to his name, ‘Dr. Federer.’

The Faculty of Medicine at the University of Basel honored the then-36-year-old for his exceptional contributions. This included his work for Switzerland’s international reputation, his promotion of health and wellness as a role model, and his charitable work. The Roger Federer Foundation, by 2018, had already positively impacted over 850,000 children in Southern Africa.

Although Federer couldn’t attend the ceremony in person, he shared his gratitude in a heartfelt message. He expressed that receiving the honorary doctorate made him “just as happy as a Grand Slam title.”

Roger Federer’s enduring love for grass courts and his extensive charitable efforts continue to solidify his legacy both on and off the tennis court. His recent honorary degree from Dartmouth College is evidence of his significant impact on the world, beyond his remarkable athletic achievements.