“Can’t Compare Him to Many”: Former Romanian Tennis Star Holds Roger Federer in High Esteem

Twenty-time Grand Slam winner Roger Federer needs no introduction when it comes to tennis. The manner in which he has entertained spectators from all over the world has been memorable. His ability to execute tennis in a flawless and artistic way is what separates him from the best players in the world. 

Recently, former Romanian tennis ace Andrei Pavel praised Roger Federer for the player he has turned out. He remembered the first time he played against the Swiss maestro and the many more encounters they were involved in. Interestingly, the first match they were involved in resulted in a loss for the former World No. 1. 

Speaking more on his memories against the Swiss athlete, Pavel stated, “My only victory over Roger Federer was in Hamburg in 2000. He was very young, 18 years old, and ranked 40th in the world. A year later he was already number one.”

Andrei Pavel beat Roger Federer in their first meeting

After winning the first battle they had, Andrei remembered the next few matches they had, and unfortunately, he suffered defeat in the next four matches they played. All those four matches were executed in a period of four months. He praised Federer for his talent and for being a unique player. After beating him the first time, he never imagined Roger would turn out to be the player he is today.  

The 49-year-old former player further added, “He then beat me in Bucharest four times in 3 months. Roger is Roger. He’s a mega-complete, mega-talented player and you can’t compare him to too many people. When I defeated him, I didn’t think he would become the best tennis player in history.” 

Andrei Pavel has taken a coaching role after retirement

After hanging his boots, Andrei took up a role in coaching. He began this new chapter by coaching former World No. 1 Jelena Jankovic. After that, he began coaching Austrian tennis player Tamira Paszek. At the moment, he is coaching fellow Romanian tennis professional Marius Copil.

Coming to Federer, he returned to action after being out of action since the Australian Open 2020. On returning, he played his first tournament at the ATP Doha Open 2021. After that, he has not featured in any event but is keen to resume his season on the clay courts at Madrid. 

Also Read: Carlos Alcaraz Matches Roger Federer in Sensational Teenage Record at ATP Marbella Open 2021