Roger Federer: The Intimate Bond Between a Tennis Player and Their Racquet
In the realm of tennis, the relationship between a player and their racquet transcends mere equipment. It’s a deeply personal connection, an extension of the self. This sentiment was eloquently expressed by Zendaya’s character in the 2024 film “Challengers,” describing a tennis match as a “relationship.”
Now, tennis legend Roger Federer has shed light on this intimate bond in an exclusive interview with Tennis Channel’s Steve Weissman. Federer unveiled his groundbreaking RF Collection by Wilson, a line of innovative racquets and accessories inspired by his on-court brilliance and off-court style.
“It’s a very personal relationship,” Federer said of his signature Wilson racquets. “I’ve always called it an extension of your arm or hand, so it’s super personal.”
This relationship, however, is not without its complexities. While the racquet is a player’s trusted ally, it often bears the brunt of frustrations during intense matches.
“Every tennis player knows what I’m talking about,” Federer explained. “You take care of it, you re-grip it. When you go into a match, you make sure the strings are where you want them to be…”
“You try not to break it, you try not to hurt it, but sometimes you get so mad at it and you think it’s the racquet’s mistake—but the racquet knows it’s you.”
Despite these occasional outbursts, Federer and his racquet have forged an enduring bond. “Anyway, we’ve had a rocky relationship, but I think we’re good friends, so it’s all good!”
If Federer’s racquet could speak, it would undoubtedly express gratitude for being chosen as the instrument of his remarkable achievements. “I don’t know, I just hope it’d be happy that I picked it up!” Federer mused.
