Former tennis star Roger Federer may have retired from the sport, but he is still a very busy man. He was recently in Shanghai, shooting for the new installment of the Uniqlo series Around the World with Roger Federer. The Swiss ace was spotted playing a game while being surrounded by children.
Roger has been in the city for a few days now. Shanghai holds a special place in his heart as he won the Masters 1000 tournament here twice. The Swiss ace even attended the final match between Andrey Rublev and Hubert Hurkacz and created a buzz with his look.
Federer has been touring several cities around the world as a part of the Uniqlo series. He was in New York City in August, shooting a similar segment for the brand. This time in Shanghai, he held a special coaching session with rising tennis stars from the Juss Sports’ Shanghai Tennis Youth Training Team.
Roger Federer played tennis with some young fans in Shanghai for a Uniqlo event.
Definitely made their day. ❤️
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) October 19, 2023
The event took place at the iconic Tian Hou Palace. Federer picked up the racket once again on a vibrantly colored tennis court, designed by Peng Cheng. Roger struck a few forehands and imparted his knowledge to the children who were watching. The junior stars then crowded Roger to high-five him.
The series is part of Uniqlo’s ongoing Next Generation Development Program. The main aim is for Roger to extend his influence to the next generation of tennis players. “I love passing on my knowledge to the next generation and hope today’s event helped strengthen their tennis skills,” said Roger (via Fast Retailing).
Roger has always enjoyed tremendous support in China. The maestro himself acknowledged it, and even Andrey Rublev pointed it out after his match. Federer will always cherish his memories in China.
Roger Federer was felicitated in a special ceremony during the Shanghai Masters
The 20-time Grand Slam champion has always been hugely popular in China. The organizers of the Shanghai Masters honored Federer on Friday last week, and fans had the chance to pay tribute to him.
Roger was presented with the “Icon Athlete Award” for all that he had achieved in his career. WTA star Li Na was also present during the ceremony.
Roger Federer is being honoured at Shanghai Masters! pic.twitter.com/FtPa0FPRRn
— Brian🇨🇭 (@camerlengo73_2) October 13, 2023
Federer was overwhelmed as he spoke of being back at the venue where he won the title in 2014 and 2017. He also took a selfie with the crowd.
Roger Federer is one of the biggest icons of the sport and his popularity shows no signs of diminishing. The love and adoration are a testament to Federer as a player, and more importantly, as a person.