Who were Roger Federer’s childhood idols?

Roger Federer influenced many to pick up a racquet and start a tennis journey! While he was younger, Roger liked watching the players with one-handed backhands, including Stefan Edberg, Boris Becker and Pete Sampras. While enjoying their games, Federer wanted to avoid copying anyone, building his style and backing the youngsters to follow that path. After a successful junior career, Federer made a name for himself on the ATP Tour in 2002. The Swiss claimed his first Masters 1000 title in Hamburg and closed the season inside the top-6. Federer conquered his first Major crown at Wimbledon a year later and closed the season on a high note with the ATP Masters Cup trophy. Becoming one of the world’s leading players under Peter Lundgren, Federer decided to carry on without the Swede from 2004.

Roger Federer enjoyed watching Stefan Edberg, Boris Becker while growing up.

In his first official match with no trainer in his box, Federer made a winning start at the Australian Open thanks to a 6-3, 6-4, 6-0 triumph over Alex Bogolomov Jr. The encounter lasted an hour and a half, and the Swiss had the upper hand from start to finish. Roger lost 15 points in 13 service games, facing no break points and mounting the pressure on the other side. The American fought bravely in the first two sets, losing serve twice while failing to create any damage on the return. With a massive lead on his side, Federer started to play even better in the third set. He delivered a bagel and sealed the deal with a service winner in game six to march into the second round. The Swiss was ready to chase high goals in 2004, feeling confident about his game and hoping for a deep run.

“I’m happy to have started well. You need straight-sets triumphs in the early rounds. I was satisfied with my performance once I found the rhythm; my serve and volley worked well. Many upsets can happen in Melbourne because some players are not at 100%. Still, the Australian Open is equally essential as the other three Majors; I’m ready for it, regardless of the place on the calendar. I have always admired players with one-handed backhands. Stefan Edberg was my first idol, and Boris Becker came after him. Later on, my favorite player was Pete Sampras, but I never tried to copy anyone. I think the kids should follow their path,” Roger Federer said.