Tennis News: Nervous Roger Federer Receives Honorary Doctorate for $100 Million Philanthropy Work

Is there anything Roger Federer cannot do? The Swiss maestro set high standards on the court during his illustrious career and was one of the most beloved players on the court. After he called time on his illustrious career back in 2022, Federer has actively been involved in philanthropic activities. Recently, the decorated Swiss personality achieved yet another feat, this time for his charitable work.

Earlier today, Federer was honored with the Doctor of Humane Letters for his massive work to make society a better place to live. The Swiss maestro, through the Roger Federer Foundation, has pledged more than $100 Million for philanthropic work, helping children of backward regions to gain access to basic needs like food and shelter.

Although a massive honor for his philanthropic activities worldwide, Federer looked nervous while receiving the doctorate. The tennis legend also got emotional, denoting how down-to-earth he is despite the fact that he has achieved so much in his career.

Federer received this degree from Dartmouth. It awards this honorary degree to select individuals who have made amazing contributions to the field of humanity. Federer was one such individual who was selected to receive this honor from Dartmouth for his charitable work.

After receiving the doctorate, Federer said, “I wasn’t sure. Thank you everybody. This is literally only the second time I’ve ever set foot on a college campus. But for some reason, you are giving me a doctorate degree. I just came here to give a speech but I get to go home as Dr. Roger, that’s a pretty nice bonus.”

Federer, through the Roger Federer Foundation, has impacted thousands of lives of young children, giving them better facilities. The CEO of his foundation, Janine Händel, once highlighted the massive impact that Federer has had through his philanthropic work.

Roger Federer leaves a lasting impact on society

The Swiss maestro has traveled across the world and spent quality time with children who lacked basic facilities, helping them overcome this social inhibition. In the book The Roger Federer Effect, Janine Händel explains how Federer worked closely with his foundation to help needy children.

She said, “He plays along immediately, gets involved and is integrated within a short time. With Roger, the children lose their inhibitions. That is not a foregone conclusion. These children are not used to strangers and certainly not to people of white skin.”

Further, she went on to add, “Roger can open people’s hearts and minds at the touch of a button. Children, but also adults. That is impressive for me to see. Usually, those children are afraid of strangers and have even burst into tears with her.”

It is incredible to see how a renowned player with so many achievements to his name works closely to improve society. Indeed, he is a legend in the true sense.