Roger Federer jokes about getting his locker room back from Carlos Alcaraz in Shanghai: "As he's not around anymore, I'm happy to have it again"
Tennis News
Roger
Federer took part in a tribute at the Shanghai Masters 1000 Open and jokingly
mentioned how he recovered his clothing from Carlos Alcaraz.
The Swiss
tennis legend has been retired for over a year but continues to receive
accolades worldwide for his illustrious career and his role as a global tennis
ambassador. The Shanghai Open had not been held since 2019 due to the COVID-19
pandemic, and it only returned this year.
Roger
Federer, a 20-time Grand Slam champion, was a two-time champion at the event.
He won the tournament in 2014 by defeating Gilles Simon (7-6, 7-6) and in 2017
by beating Rafael Nadal (6-4, 6-3).
During a
tribute event, he was joined by Chinese tennis star and former world No. 2, Li
Na, the most accomplished Chinese tennis player in history, as well as the
current Chinese No. 1, Zhang Zhizhen (57th).
Federer,
who is 42 years old, answered some press questions, visited his former locker
room, and playfully commented that the young star Carlos Alcaraz had used his
locker during the last tournament, jokingly expressing his delight at getting
it back.
"So
here we're heading down the tunnel of all the locker rooms. I heard that
Alcaraz was staying in my locker room this year. But, as he is not around
anymore, I got it back, so I am sorry for him. But I am happy to have my own
locker room again," he said.
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During the
ceremony, Federer also spoke about his performances in Shanghai, particularly
about the 2017 final against his great rival Nadal:
"I
thought I played extremely well in that match. I felt like Rafa was a little
bit banged up with his knees and maybe a bit tired, but I played a fantastic
tournament in a fantastic year in 2017 when I came back with my knee
problems," Federer added.
"It
was an absolute dream year and I believe it was the last time I won the Rolex
Shanghai Masters. So of course, forever special and it was a terrific week and
I love it, you know, the battles I have with Rafa and happy that I won that
finals here that year."
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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