Ruud recalls feeling overwhelmed on first meeting with Federer

Rising ATP star Casper Ruud gave some insight into his first meeting with tennis legend Roger Federer, indicating that even fellow players are intimidated by the Swiss Maestro's presence.

The 21-year old Norwegian recalled the first time he encountered Federer, stating that there was a certain aura surrounding the 20-time Grand Slam champion.

“It was in Melbourne a few years ago, and then I remember that we sat in a large café where all the players sit to eat,” Ruud recalled. "When Roger Federer came in, it was completely quiet and everyone turned around. Now the legend is here.”

Read also

Ruud admits he couldn't sleep before facing Federer

Ruud also stated that Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic, the other members of the Big 3, have a similar presence when in the same room.

"These three legends, they look taller than they might be,” Ruud added. “They are probably around 1.85 meters, but it may seem that they are two meters because of the respect you have for them.”