‘Touched Many People’- Roger Federer Paid an Emotional Tribute to ‘King of Pop’ Michael Jackson for Inspiring Him in Tough Times

Roger Federer is one of the most respected players on the ATP tour. It is not just because of his record and standing in the big three of this generation, but also due to his down-to-earth nature. He respects other professions equally and the fame of the sport never changed him. Further, he is still in touch with his humble side and openly accepts and appreciates things that please him.

The 20-time Grand Slam champion is the perfect representation of a gentleman. Therefore, he fits right into the ethical codes of the sport. A part of which is being true to themselves. Speaking of which, when the legendary Michael Jackson passed away rather than giving shallow condolence, he shared what connected him with the legend.

Roger Federer shares a heartwarming story from his childhood

Federer in 2009, just after the Jackson’s demise, shared the incident which showcased his love for the legend. He recalled going to a stadium in Basel, Switzerland, as a kid in the late 1980s with his sister and just standing outside to hear Jackson playing inside. He said, “There was such excitement that he would come.”

Thereafter, he added, “Obviously, I love his music. … A very sad moment, I think, in the music world. He touched many people. Same for me. But I’ll obviously still listen to his music for many more years to come.”

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Michael Jackson was an incredibly popular American singer, songwriter, and philanthropist. He was bestowed with the title ‘King of Pop’ because of his decades long hold on the industry. Further, his music videos, such as Billie Jean, Beat It and Thriller are credited with bringing a new style of entertainment.

What is Federer up to these days?

The former world no.1 walked out of the circuit after last year’s Wimbledon championships seeking surgery for his injured knee and is still waiting to make a comeback. He has enrolled for the upcoming Laver Cup and Swiss Indoors Basel. But with spare time in his hand, the Swiss legend decided to accomplish things that the otherwise hectic schedule of tennis wouldn’t allow.

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Federer traveled to Malawi to witness the changes that the efforts of the Roger Federer Foundation have brought. He interacted and played with children in Malawi and then took a nice and cozy trip to Rome. Thereafter, he attended this season’s Wimbledon as special guest during the centenary celebrations of Centre Court.