Roger Federer‘s career and personal philosophy reflect not just a pursuit of excellence but also an appreciation for happiness. The Swiss Maestro, a beacon of inspiration to any who might be struggling through setbacks, had a unique piece of advice to share recently. His tennis prowess has never been in question but the way he approaches the philosophy of life, and the importance of maintaining a ‘happy spirit’, is what’s worth noting.

The 20-time Grand Slam champion attended an event organized by Dartmouth College’s athletic club on June 9. He was also honored with the Doctor of Humane Letters degree by the Ivy League College. During a conversation with the college’s president, Sian Leah Beilock, the tennis legend shared a piece of life advice with the graduating batch of 2024, that will remain with them for years to come.

Discussing the importance of maintaining a happy spirit, Federer revealed the advice he imparts to his children. “I just told my kids last week we were not born to be unhappy, you know, go through life always sad. And always worrying and always fighting, and always complaining,” he said.

He emphasized that living a life filled with unhappiness and negativity is not a worthwhile pursuit. “I mean that cannot be the idea, that you go through life that way. So I believe very much in a happy spirit.” This philosophy has definitely helped the Swiss legend in his illustrious career.

Federer’s glorious years in tennis, spanning over two decades, not only garnered him numerous accolades but also saw him dominate the World No. 1 position for a record 237 consecutive weeks and 310 weeks in total. President Beilock, who earlier lauded Federer as one of the greatest athletes, highlighted the evident joy he found on the court. “Roger Federer is undeniably one of the greatest athletes of all time, but it’s the evident joy that he always found on the court that stays with me.”

Roger Federer’s statement about remaining happy spirit aligns well with his attitude. Who would have forgotten when the legend, despite being in tears, claimed to be happy?

‘I am not sad, I am happy,’ when tearful Roger Federer denied being sad

“I am not sad, I am happy,” a tearful Roger Federer insisted as he denied feeling sad during his emotional farewell at the Laver Cup in London on September 23, 2022. There wasn’t a single dry eye in the stadium when the tennis sensation played his last match, alongside Rafael Nadal.

Federer, who had announced his retirement following several injuries and surgeries, was visibly moved as the crowd bid him a tearful goodbye. Addressing the stadium, he maintained his happiness despite the overwhelming emotions. “I told the guys I’m happy, not sad. It feels great to be here. I enjoyed tying my shoelaces one more time, everything was the last time.” This statement came when Federer was seen in an overwhelmed state, crying heavily. Despite the tears, he continued to assert that he was happy.

These recent statements of the tennis maestro align perfectly with his past actions. His advice to his children about a happy life, reflects his own approach to life and career. For many who feel dejected and unhappy amid life’s challenges, Federer’s words are no less than a guiding light.