Roger Federer has written the final chapter of his professional tennis career, and it was as full of emotion and adoration as would be expected for the legend. 

He and Rafael Nadal fought hard against Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe of Team World, narrowly losing 4-6, 7-6 (7-2), 11-9. 

But the scoreline is not something those present will remember as the gathered fans and fellow tennis greats paid tribute to Federer in his final on-court appearance. 

“We’ll get through this somehow,” Federer said to the crowd with tears in his eyes. “It’s been a wonderful day. I told the guys I’m happy, I’m not sad. It feels great to be here. I enjoyed tying my shoes one more time, and everything was the last time.

“I’m so happy I made it through, the match was great, I couldn’t be happier.”

Federer was joined by his parents, his wife Mirka and his four children soon after the end of the match, sharing the emotion of the moment together. 

The 41-year-old may have finished his professional tennis career, but no doubt he will maintain his promise “not to be a ghost” to the sport moving forward. 

If there’s one thing you watch today, make it this.#LaverCup | @rogerfederer pic.twitter.com/Ks9JqEeR6B

— Laver Cup (@LaverCup) September 23, 2022

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