A hero’s welcome! Roger Federer is given a standing ovation by O2 Arena crowd as he prepares for his farewell doubles match with Rafael Nadal at the Laver Cup… as Swiss legend is seen relaxing with Bjorn Borg, Stefanos Tsitsipas and Matteo Berrettini
- Roger Federer was given a standing ovation by the crowd at the O2 Arena
- The Swiss legend will play the final match of his career on Friday night
- He’ll take on Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe in a doubles match with Rafael Nadal
- Federer carved a composed figure as he spoke backstage with Team Europe
Roger Federer was given a standing ovation by the 02 Arena crowd ahead of his farewell doubles match at the Laver Cup, on Friday night.
The Swiss tennis legend revealed earlier this month that the London tournament would be the final competition of his career, having struggled with a series of injuries in recent years.
And as he made his way to onto the court on Friday, where he will partner up with Spaniard Rafael Nadal, he was met with a chorus and applause from the fans in the audience.
For the final match of his 24-year-long career, Federer play alongside his long-term competitor for Team Europe against American duo Jack Sock and Francis Tiafoe.
The 41-year-old looked a relaxed figure backstage, as he spoke with team captain Bjorn Borg and team-mates Stefanos Tsitsipas and Matteo Berrettini, before making his way onto the court.
Federer had previously spoken of his desire to play alongside Nadal, before Team Europe captain Borg helped grant the tennis legend his wish.
Roger Federer received a standing ovation from the crowd at the O2 Arena on Friday afternoon
Earlier this month, Federer announced his plans to retire after the Laver Cup this month
The Swiss star won 20 Grand Slam Championships across his impressive tennis career
Federer looked a composed figure as he chatted with his Team Europe team-mates on Friday
The duo took to the court to practice in front of fans and media on Thursday, and the pair appeared in good spirits ahead of their highly-anticipated match.
The 20-time Grand Slam champion – who sits third in the men’s all-time tally – bows out as one of the greatest to ever take to the court, claiming a stunning total of 103 singles titles on the ATP Tour.
The Laver Cup, which Federer helped to establish in 2017, sees Team Europe go up against Team World in tennis’ version of golf’s Ryder Cup, with nine singles and three doubles matches taking place at London’s O2 Arena.
Federer will team up with long-term competitor Rafael Nadal for his farewell doubles match
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