Tennis courts aren’t just for fierce battles—they’re playgrounds for innovation, tricky shots, and moments of pure genius. Over the years, star players have mesmerized fans and peers alike with moves that redefine the sport. And if there’s one name that embodies this spirit, it’s Roger Federer. His creative shots and smooth play have set a standard that few can match. Now, joining the chorus of admiration is Australian sensation Nick Kyrgios, who’s openly celebrating the legendary Swiss player

The Australian tennis player engaged in an interview for the October 29th episode of The Louis Theroux Podcast and expressed his views on a wide range of factors including the cheeky shots that he used to play and the controversies that unfolded on the courts. He also shed light on the glamorous Tweener shot and claimed that Federer was one of the best players who played it with perfection. 

Speaking in the interview, Kyrgios said, “I mean just a little shot that I played from time to time like it’s not you know, It’s not that special. Federer, Federer played it. He is the original genius.” This also highlights that Federer has outshined the other members of the Big 3, Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal, at least when it comes to playing this unique shot. Also known as a hotdog or between-the-legs shot, Tweener is a difficult skill where a player hits the ball between their legs, and Kyrgios believes that Federer was the best in business. 

Federer has often been seen playing this shot and has mesmerized the fans and experts alike. Interestingly, this is not the first time when Kyrgios has snubbed Nadal or Djokovic in expressing his admiration for the Swiss Maestro. 

During his commentary stint at the Australian Open, Nick Kyrgios answered the pressing question about who the GOAT of the sport is. “The greatest of all time is definitely Novak, but that doesn’t mean – if I said who would I want to go out there and want to watch, Roger Federer is the nicest to watch, he’s the most talented, makes the game look effortless, like the Michael Jordan of tennis.”

Despite his high regards for Federer though, Kyrgios once revealed that he never wanted to be like Federer.

“Never looked at him,” When Nick Kyrgios shared his true feelings for Roger Federer

Roger Federer has not just been any other player. He has redefined an era with his remarkable skills and has created a huge fan base. But despite admiring him to a great extent, Nick Kyrgios once revealed that he does not wish to emulate the tennis great in an interaction with American businessman Gary Vaynerchuk.

Speaking in the interview, Kyrgios said, “If everyone was the same and acted the same, no one would watch. They wouldn’t be growing fans, youthful fans, like… I’m not relatable to Federer. Only a couple of people are relatable to Federer, I’m not.” Continuing further in the interview, the Aussie said, “I never looked at him and I was like, ‘I wanna be that guy,’ I knew it wasn’t attainable.”

Federer’s legacy has continued to inspire players even after the Swiss Maestro hung up his racquets two years ago. As time evolves, it would be interesting to see if more players join Kyrgios to laud the remarkable talent of the tennis great.