Is it inspiring to have legendary athletes around who once motivated you to take up the sport? As per a former pro, it’s undeniably a valuable opportunity for current-generation players. Reflecting on how the presence of such stalwarts provides players with vital knowledge and skills. The former star pointed at  Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal’s actions explaining how the Swiss maestro became a significant source of inspiration for rising players.

Petchy had an interesting opinion about Federer and Nadal’s presence in the tournaments after retirement. Federer founded the Laver Cup tournament with his manager Tony Godsick and together they designed the rules of the event. Given Federer is an integral part of the Laver Cup, he is around the court when the event takes place. On the other hand, Rafa retired last month. He is appointed as the Brand Ambassador of the Saudi Arabian Tennis Federation. Nadal attended the ATP Next Gen Finals and motivated the players. So, the legends are still around – which is in every way a good thing. Hear out, former British pro, Mark Petchy.

Mark Petchy thinks Federer and Nadal’s presence is a big help for tennis’ rising stars like Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz, and others. In a discussion with Jason Goodall and Christopher Eubanks, Petchy said, “There’s no question that the history of the game is one of the greatest sort of strengths that that tennis has. We’ve seen other players at times walk away. Bjorn Borg, obviously just never really wanted to come. Stephan Edberg, somebody that was always kind of just sort of backstage. Was never wanting to be front and center. Another one with Pete, obviously, I definitely feel as though it is something that we should celebrate. I know the ATP tier, of course, has done the number one club, which is a lovely gesture for players that have reached the penthouse of it. So from the fact that the Rafa is going to be around and Roger is still around, I think it’s going to help while Jannik and Carlos and the others build their aura.”

Petchy’s statement highlighted how legends’ involvement with tennis after his retirement is different than Bjorn Borg or Stefan Edberg who opted not to remain under the spotlight. This Briton also mentioned legendary Pete Sampras stating how he drifted away from the limelight after retirement. Petchy’s purpose in bringing these names was to highlight Federer’s deep connection with the sport, which makes him essential in the field although he retired. This is also because he can offer his direct guidance regarding skill, motivation, and physicality to the players which can be quite resourceful for them to build a career as glorious their idols had.

Interstingly, Federer enjoys this association with his favorite sport. A few months back, he expressed his feelings about maintaining a close tie with tennis after retirement. His statement echoed his profound love for the sport and his willingness to contribute to its progress no matter what.

Roger Federer doesn’t want separation from tennis

During this year’s Laver Cup tournament, the Swiss legend made an adorable confession. “I’m happy I went back right away to some tournaments, I don’t feel like an alien, which is a good thing because you can feel like that very quickly. People (and) players ask you ‘what are you doing here?’ and you’re like ‘exactly — if you keep talking like this, I will never come back.’“ Federer’s statement highlighted his interest in remaining close to sport while addressing why many legends have not done the same. Reflecting on his thoughts, Federer mentioned that he would attend the Australian Open and cheer for his favorite players.  “I look forward to Australia, which is the next Slam,” Federer concluded.

Despite retirement, Roger Federer’s presence in tennis tournaments is truly beneficial for modern-day players as they have the opportunity to receive the Swiss legend’s guidance. Given Federer’s tremendous career, his knowledge will be resourceful for players shaping their playstyle and skill in a way that helps them in the future.