Childhood friend didn’t think Federer would have such a “monstrous career”

Three-time Grand Slam champion Michael Llodra knew childhood friend Roger Federer had talent but never thought he would enjoy such an illustrious career.

Federer is currently tied with both current World number one Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal for the most Grand Slam titles of all time, with the trio all holding 20 Slam titles each. However, all three players are still active and are competing to become the most successful male singles player of all time.

The 40 year old Swiss maestro has recently revealed that he will definitely miss the Australian Open and possibly Wimbledon as he continues his recovery from his knee surgery.

Federer was ruled out for the latter half of the season when he suffered a set back with his knee following Wimbledon, forcing him to withdraw from the rescheduled 2020 Tokyo Olympics. The 20-time Grand Slam champion also discussed retirement with his team whilst he was out injured.

When asked about which opponent he admired the most, Llodra said “Roger Federer. I had the chance to face him several times (Federer won both). We are a year apart, I’ve known him since I was 12. We grew up together. I didn’t think he would have such a monstrous career.

“He was a very good player, we could see that he had facilities, but from there to predict that he was going to become the or one of the greatest players of all time…

“He had flashes but he was a bit nervous and had ups and downs. As soon as he managed to sort it out, he became a whole different player. He has such ease, all his shots are perfect.”

🎾 Read >> Breaking tennis news

🎾 Follow >> 24/7 LIVE scores

🎾 Free >> Receive our legendary newsletter

🎾 Join >> Tennishead CLUB, the world’s only virtual tennis club

🎾 Social >> Facebook, Twitter, Instagram & YouTube

🎾 Order >> World’s best tennis magazine

🎾 Shop >> Lowest price tennis gear from our trusted retail partner