Federer remains humble ahead of charity match with Bill Gates: "I can learn a lot"

Tennis News
Thursday, 06 February 2020 at 09:00
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After his disappointing loss to Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open, Switzerland's Roger Federer will head to South Africa this Friday for a doubles charity match with internet mogul, Bill Gates.

The World No.3 will team up with billionaire Gates to take on longtime rival Rafael Nadal and The Daily Show host Trevor Noah in Cape Town this weekend.

Arguably the most popular tennis player on the planet, Federer still chose to downplay his importance when comparing himself to the accomplished philanthropist.

"It's very stimulating to spend time with people as brilliant as Bill Gates. I feel very small next to Gates, but I can learn a lot. Such encounters take me further. But you have to listen carefully, be very attentive, understand quickly," Federer said as he prepared for the match.

The 20-time Grand Slam champion will also face Nadal in a singles charity match, as the two have played against each other in various charity events over the years.

With his mother hailing from South Africa, Federer reveals that it holds a special place in his heart. He went on to state that he would like to play there at least once before he eventually retires.

"I'm always happy to go to Africa because I haven't spent enough time there in the past 20, 25 years. But I can't be anywhere. When I arrive in South Africa, there is great anticipation. It is a special feeling that I cannot describe exactly," Federer added.

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