Roger Federer touched down in Berlin on Thursday, just in time for the Laver Cup, which gets underway this weekend. As a part-owner of the tournament through his company TEAM8, Federer returns to the event where he bid farewell to professional tennis two years ago.
Federer will be in the stands supporting Team Europe and is particularly eager to see Carlos Alcaraz, the Spanish sensation, make his Laver Cup debut.
“I’m really excited to see Carlos Alcaraz play for the first time,” Federer told the Laver Cup website. “I barely know him, but I did have one practice session with him at Wimbledon when he was still a junior. The next day, my coach suggested I warm up with him again, but I opted for his coach, Juan Carlos Ferrero, who was from my generation. I owe Carlos an apology for that choice!” Federer chuckled.
Another player Federer is keen to watch is Alexander Zverev, the world No. 2, who will be competing in front of his home crowd at the Uber Arena.
“I think it’s going to be a fantastic experience for him, similar to what I felt when I played in Geneva,” said Federer.
Federer is optimistic about Team Europe’s chances, given the impressive lineup this year.
“I believe Team Europe is very strong this year; it’s stacked,” Federer remarked. “The low altitude should favor the best players. Although Team World has some fantastic and in-form players, I expect Team Europe to dominate most of the singles matches, while Team World might have the edge in doubles.”
With the Laver Cup set to showcase some thrilling tennis, Federer’s insights and anticipation add an extra layer of excitement to the weekend’s events.
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