In a candid admission, tennis legend Roger Federer has confessed to underestimating the prowess of his longtime rival, Novak Djokovic, during the early stages of their careers. Speaking in anticipation of the premiere of “Federer: Twelve Final Days,” a documentary chronicling his remarkable journey, Federer reflected on his initial impressions of Djokovic and the evolution of their rivalry.
Recalling their first encounter in Monaco back in 2006, Federer revealed his initial assessment of Djokovic as “okay,” despite the surrounding hype. However, Federer admitted to not fully recognizing Djokovic’s talents due to perceived technical flaws in his game, particularly in his forehand and backhand.
Nevertheless, Federer’s retrospective analysis now acknowledges Djokovic’s transformation into an “incredible beast of a player,” attributing his success to relentless determination and unparalleled skill. Federer further suggested that Djokovic’s arrival disrupted the established fan dynamic, challenging the dominance of himself and Rafael Nadal on the ATP tour.
The forthcoming documentary, “Federer: Twelve Final Days,” promises an intimate portrayal of Federer’s final days on the professional circuit, offering unprecedented insights into his career-defining moments and relationships with fellow tennis luminaries.
Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Asif Kapadia and Joe Sabia, the documentary is set to premiere exclusively on Prime Video, granting global audiences access to Federer’s reflective journey and his enduring legacy in the sport.
As Federer bids farewell to professional tennis, his words stand as a testament to Djokovic’s enduring impact on the sport and the mutual respect shared between two titans of the game.
