Roger Federer is one of tennis’ greatest and most revered figures, and his retirement in 2021 sent shockwaves throughout the sporting world.
After all, the legacy he forged is one that will live long in the memory, as the smoothest striker of a tennis ball many have ever seen.
The Swiss superstar made the sport look so easy, and many have called for him to wade back in to pass on his wealth of knowledge to the next generation.
The fact alone that Federer was recently inducted into the Tennis Hall of Fame speaks volumes for just how well-liked he remains despite his absence from the professional circuit.
Now asked if he would like to go into coaching anytime soon, whilst speaking to Tages-Anzeiger, his answer was a straightforward one.
Roger Federer reveals if he wants to go into coaching
In any capacity, tennis fans would love to see Roger Federer back involved with tennis.
After all, whenever he does make an appearance, be it at the Laver Cup, Wimbledon or Shanghai, the fanfare is evident.
Sadly, his response was not a promising one regarding his immediate thoughts on coaching, as he noted: “Not at the moment. I’m concentrating on our children. It’s an interesting, important time now before everyone leaves home. We like being together as a family, and there’s so much to do. Juggling everything with four children is demanding. No matter who asked now, I’d decline.
“I don’t have time. I think everyone knows that. That’s why nobody asks. (laughs)”
However, he did not completely close the door on the opportunity, and welcomed any questions from professionals in need of his brief guidance: “But never say never.
“Stefan Edberg hadn’t thought he’d spend two years on tour with me either. But I’m open to mentoring. If someone has a question, I’m happy to give advice. Or if I’m in Dubai at the end of the year, a player is welcome to drop by. I’m open, but I can’t be everywhere.”
Roger Federer even refuses to coach his son
Federer’s stance on this matter is clearly a dispassionate one, and that even extends to Leo, son of the legendary 44-year-old.
After all, having shown a keen interest and penchant for the sport, the youngster has been pictured alongside his father at events, including this year’s Laver Cup.
And yet, when asked about coaching his son, Federer admitted: “I’m not coaching my son. If they need me, I’m there. I love helping, and other kids too, but someone else should be in charge of the training. I see myself more as a general manager with Leo.
“I did not push him for a long time, but for about a year now, I have noticed that he wants to play more. I try to make it happen. At this age, he needs enough practice and matches. I make sure Leo has good coaches and training partners.
“Organising all that takes a lot of work. You cannot just send him somewhere and see what happens. I think Leo is doing great. He is also participating in the occasional tournaments now. For me, it’s exciting to support him.”
If anyone were to force Federer back into the tennis world, specifically on the coaching side, his son would surely get first refusal.
