Key Points

Neeraj Chopra shared his admiration for Roger Federer, calling him an inspiration both as a player and a person. He recalled watching Federer's iconic Wimbledon victories and meeting him in Zurich. Chopra also praised Rafael Nadal's fighting spirit and physical dominance. The javelin star enjoyed his first Wimbledon experience while witnessing Sinner's triumph over Alcaraz.

Key Points: Neeraj Chopra Calls Roger Federer Inspiring Player and Person

  • Neeraj Chopra admires Federer's legacy and Wimbledon dominance
  • Recalls meeting Federer in Zurich last year
  • Praises Nadal's relentless fighting spirit
  • Attends first Wimbledon final witnessing Sinner vs Alcaraz
2 min read

Roger Federer is very inspiring both in the way he plays and as a human being: Neeraj Chopra

Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra praises Roger Federer's greatness on and off the court while recalling his Wimbledon memories.

"Roger Federer is very inspiring - both in the way he plays and as a human being. - Neeraj Chopra"

London, July 14

Two-time Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra praised tennis legend Roger Federer, calling him a true champion not just for his brilliance on the court but also for being a kind person.

Chopra, who was present at the Centre Court of All England Club to witness the men's singles final between Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, recalled the era of Federer who holds the record for most grass-court Grand Slams with eight titles including five successive Championships from 2003 to 2007.

"I’m feeling very good. This is my first tennis tournament - and that too, Wimbledon - so I’m really enjoying it. I remember when Federer used to win, he would wear that grass coat, and we knew a little bit about the tradition - that the whole dress code is white. I used to feel very good watching that," the javelin star told Star Sports.

"I think Roger Federer is very inspiring - both in the way he plays and as a human being. I met him in Zurich last year, spent quite some time with him, and had a good conversation. It felt really nice. The way he used to play was also amazing," he added.

Chopra also remembered Spanish stalwart Rafael Nadal, who won 22 Grand Slams including two Wimbledon titles, for his never-give-up attitude.

"I’d also like to mention one more player - Nadal. He used to play really well too. His willpower and never-give-up attitude were something I really admired," he said.

"I think Nadal stood out because he was very strong physically - different from many other tennis players. He had a fighter’s spirit and looked very muscular. He didn’t even look like a typical tennis player - he looked powerful. So, I always felt Nadal was really good."

In the men's singles final, Sinner overcame Alcaraz 4-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 in a spectacle to lift his maiden Wimbledon Grand Slam.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

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Priya N
Federer-Nadal era was pure gold! 🎾 Neeraj is right about their contrasting styles - one was poetry in motion, other was raw power. Miss watching them dominate Wimbledon!
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Amit K
While I respect Neeraj's views, I think he's being too kind to Federer. Djokovic has better stats and deserves more praise. But good to see our Olympic champ enjoying tennis!
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Shreya M
This mutual respect between champions across sports is heartwarming ❤️ Federer visiting Neeraj's events would be amazing! Maybe next time in India?
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Varun P
Nadal's never-say-die attitude is exactly what made Neeraj win gold in Tokyo! Both are warriors in their own way. Great to see role models appreciating each other.
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Nisha R
Federer's white outfit tradition at Wimbledon was iconic! So happy Neeraj got to experience the magic live. Hope he inspires more Indians to take up athletics and tennis 🎾

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