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via Getty
ENGLEFIELD, ENGLAND – MAY 20: Swiss tennis player Roger Federer and his wife Mirka arrive at St Mark’s Church ahead of the wedding of Pippa Middleton and James Matthews on May 20, 2017 in Englefield, England. Middleton, the sister of Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge is to marry hedge fund manager James Matthews in a ceremony Saturday where her niece and nephew Prince George and Princess Charlotte are in the wedding party, along with sister Kate and princes Harry and William. (Photo by Kirsty Wigglesworth – Pool/Getty Images)
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via Getty
ENGLEFIELD, ENGLAND – MAY 20: Swiss tennis player Roger Federer and his wife Mirka arrive at St Mark’s Church ahead of the wedding of Pippa Middleton and James Matthews on May 20, 2017 in Englefield, England. Middleton, the sister of Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge is to marry hedge fund manager James Matthews in a ceremony Saturday where her niece and nephew Prince George and Princess Charlotte are in the wedding party, along with sister Kate and princes Harry and William. (Photo by Kirsty Wigglesworth – Pool/Getty Images)
Roger Federer‘s recent trip to Lesotho was more than just a charitable trip; it was an unforgettable family affair that left a profound impact on the tennis legend. In an exclusive interview with CNN, Federer opened up about why this particular expedition on behalf of the Roger Federer Foundation held a special place in his heart.
Having already made a significant difference in the lives of 2.5 million children across Southern Africa and Switzerland through his philanthropic initiatives, Federer’s trip to Lesotho took his commitment to a whole new level.
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Roger Federer is slowly creating the joy of giving back in his children
The Lesotho trip took on a unique significance as Federer’s entire family joined him for this meaningful adventure. “So that trip was extra special for me because this time all 4 of my children could join, my wife and my mother also joined, so we had the best time,” Federer shared with a touch of excitement. For several days, they immersed themselves in the captivating landscapes of Lesotho, savoring the experiences that unfolded in this unfamiliar territory for philanthropy.
Lesotho, a country Federer had never visited before, held a significant meaning for him. It marked the final destination to be included in the charitable initiatives supporting early childhood education that he has been championing since 2020. “It’s also the last country that’s been a part of our countries that we support in early childhood education since 2020,” Federer explained.
EXCLUSIVE: "I’m not the coach, I am the dad and the dad’s advice, as we know, only goes so far."
Being coached by @rogerfederer would be a dream come true for any young tennis player … except his own children 📷
👉 https://t.co/Ym2KibeYGv pic.twitter.com/7YNgsHusAO
— CNN Sports (@cnnsport) July 4, 2023
While the trip was an opportunity to give back, Federer’s focus was on making it a memorable experience for his children. “It’s more catered towards them so they could play with the children there at the school, run around and play catch and read to one another,” Federer shared with a smile. Seeing his children interact with children in their age-group in Lesotho brought immense joy to the tennis star.
Moreover, the interview delved into Federer’s involvement in various activities during his time in Lesotho.
Federer on hands-on engagement and responsibility
When asked about playing tennis with the children and reading books to them, he emphasized the importance of being hands on in their education. “Yeah, I think it is very important to be hands-on and seeing the confidence grow in them and just to listen, which is actually working on what we’re trying to implement in them,” Federer explained thoughtfully. The interview also playfully delved into Federer’s family life.
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USA Today via Reuters
Dec 4, 2022; Brooklyn, New York, USA; Former tennis champion Roger Federer watches the warmups prior to the game between the Boston Celtics and the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports
Federer firmly believes in the untapped potential within each child. By encouraging children to take on responsibilities and make their own choices, he seeks to empower them to shape their own destinies. “At the end of the day, like you said, we have to give them the power,” Federer emphasized.
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Reflecting on his extraordinary journey to Lesotho, Federer expressed gratitude for the opportunity to witness firsthand the impact of his charitable efforts. As he continues to inspire countless children and champion various causes, both on and off the tennis court, his visit to Lesotho stands as a testament to the transformative power of education and compassion.
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