“More Emotional Than Nadal and Djokovic”: Italian Open Director Explains Reason Behind Roger Federer’s Global Following

The ATP Tour has reached the city of great history and heritage, Rome, for its next Masters 1000 event. Before the tournament begins, the Italian Open 2021 director, Filippo Volandri, opened up on the legacy of Roger Federer as compared to Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic.

Famously known as the big three, the Swiss-Spanish-Serbian trio has dominated the men’s circuit for almost two decades. Moreover, their achievements make it near impossible to pick the best among them.

However, the Swiss maestro has earned considerably more recognition than the other two tennis stars worldwide, and Filippo explained the reason behind Federer’s global following.

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Volandri explains why Federer has more of a connection with fans than Nadal and Djokovic

Astonishingly, the Italian Open is one of the very few tournaments in which Roger Federer has not succeeded, and Filippo Volandri, former Italian World No. 25, had the good luck to face and defeat the Swiss maestro in Rome, 2007.

In a recent interview, the tournament director talked about one of the most memorable nights of his career. But more importantly, he spoke about the factor that makes Federer one of the most recognized sport faces in the world.

“He is as he is seen on and off the pitch. It is technically and biomechanically perfect,” the director said.

(All quotes are translated from Italian to English via Google Translate)

Furthermore, the Italian revealed that because the Swiss maestro is more emotional than Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic, people connect with him more often with ease. “The fact that he is more emotional than Nadal and Djokovic’s perfection makes the audience love him more,” Volandri said.

Additionally, the retired Italian professional remembered how ecstatic he was after beating Federer in his home tournament. He said, “I, who have never been an exaggeration, went around the field to give high five to all the spectators to make them partakers of a crazy joy.”

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Which tournament will Roger Federer play next?

Federer will return to the ATP Tour at his home tournament, the Geneva Open 2021. It will start from May 16, 2021, and run until May 22, 2021. That means Federer will not play at the Italian Open 2021.

Also, the 39-year-old has confirmed his participation in the French Open 2021. Thus, tennis fans are looking forward to watching Federer take to the tennis courts soon.

Do you think Roger can win his 21st Grand Slam before retirement?

Also Read: Why Winning Italian Open 2021 Is Important for Rafael Nadal Ahead of French Open?