It has been over a month since American tennis great Jim Courier had the rare opportunity to conduct an on-court interview with Roger Federer during an exhibition match in London. In a recent podcast appearance, Courier revisited the experience and revealed what it was like speaking to Federer in front of a lively crowd.
Those who have followed Roger Federer’s career are well aware of his unflappable demeanor on and off the court. Even in high-pressure situations, he maintains his cool and calm exterior. This trait was on full display during the London exhibition match according to Courier. With fans yelling out questions and the interview segment having a less structured feel than normal, it would have been easy for Federer to become distracted or annoyed. However, his attitude won the heart of Courier.
Jim Courier revisits a fascinating on-court interview with Roger Federer
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Despite the unusual format with fan involvement, Roger Federer remained his typical composed self. Courier said, “None of that phases Roger, he just keeps giving you great content.” As someone who has interviewed Federer many times over the years, Courier was impressed by how the 20-time Grand Slam champion handled the situation.
On a Tennis Channel Live podcast, Courier said, “Roger’s the best. He’s so easy to talk to and happy and puts everyone at ease,” Courier said on the Tennis Channel Inside-In podcast. “It was a weird interview because it wasn’t all my questions. Normally when I talk to Roger, I’m isolated and I just do my thing. This one was very heavily produced, but it was cool because there were crowd questions and there were some video questions. So it had a rhythm, little different.”
Roger Federer’s calm approach is nothing new, especially when it comes to engagement with the fans. Even at the age of 42, having retired from tennis, Federer remains dedicated to his fans and those who have supported him throughout his legendary career.
Roger Federer’s unwavering commitment to fans
Roger Federer’s efforts to maintain a special bond with his fans were evident in his willingness to take part in the unique fan-interactive interview format in London. As Courier pointed out, Federer could have dismissed some of the quirkier questions or seemed impatient given it was an unconventional setting. Instead, he addressed each one with poise and enthusiasm as if it were a standard press conference.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Roger Federer gave out a very emotional reply when interviewed, “Well, tennis has been such a big part of your life and you become such a big part of ours as a result of it. We miss you. Do you miss tennis? Do you miss being out on tour?.”
Roger Federer said, “I do. Of course, I do, guys. Yeah, in a way, I miss everything about the game and the exciting moments spent on court, the break points saved, the winning match points, holding up trophies, walking past fans, taking selfies. It’s all part of one big happy family on the tour.”
In summarizing his experience speaking to Federer that day in London, Courier concluded that some things will never change about the Swiss maestro. No matter the scenario or pressure of the moment, Federer maintains complete composure and dedication to his craft. It is what has set him apart throughout a two-decade-long career at the top of the game.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
As Courier’s fascinating anecdote shows, even in unusual situations “none of that phases Roger.” He remains fully engaged with fans and a joy to interact with years after retiring – a testament to his greatness on and off the court.
Watch This Story: Serena Williams pays tribute to Roger Federer.