Roger Federer’s sponsor, Credit Suisse, just released a slick three part interview with the World No. 1 on its website. Roger has some interesting things to say – here are some choice excerpts with links included to the full articles. (Interview by Daniel Huber)
Q: In his book “Winning Ugly,” former tennis pro and coach Brad Gilbert describes what is essentially psychological warfare on the tennis court. Is that the way you see it too?
Federer: I always have to smile to myself a little when I see what people read into some of the things I’ve said. For example, in an interview after my win in Australia, John McEnroe said that I had used all my experience of psychological warfare by stating before the final that Murray was under a lot more pressure than me because I had already won everything. I then apparently also exploited Murray’s injured foot to the maximum. Of course, that’s absolute nonsense, especially as the supposed foot injury turned out to be no problem at all. I don’t see that sort of thing as psychological warfare, I just say what I think. The fact that Murray, with no Grand Slam wins, would need the win in a final more than me and therefore be under more pressure is just the way it is.
Another interesting tidbit from this section – Federer says he plays through some kind of physical pain “80 percent of the time.”
Federer: Something always hurts but these pains often disappear again during the warm-up or can be massaged away by the physiotherapist. It is hugely important to know your body well and have a reliable early warning system. That’s why the breaks in between tournaments are so important to me – not just physically but also mentally.
Via Part II: Private Life, a look at Roger’s regimen:
Q: Do you have a special nutrition program?
Federer: Not really, no. I once asked a nutritionist what he would recommend for me. To which he replied: “You got to be number 13 in the world without my help; that means you can make it to number 1 without my help too. But if you ever want me to give you any tips, just give me a call. I haven’t called him yet.
Q: We’d got as far as breakfast.
Federer: After breakfast I go and stretch, do a few warm-up exercises for five to ten minutes and then go on to my workout, which lasts around an hour. I then train for two hours or so on the tennis court, then it’s time for lunch. From three until five I’ll either do another workout or another tennis session. Then I come back in, shower and get a massage. That takes me from six until eight, and then it’s time for dinner.
Q: Do you drink the occasional glass of wine with a good evening meal?
Federer: It’s been known to happen. As I said, I’m not particularly strict about my diet.
From Part III: Role Models:
Q: I have read that you also wanted to become a rock star.
Federer: Of course! But I would still rather have become a star in another sport. On the other hand, being a lead singer in a rock band has a lot in common with a tennis player, be it the inspiration or the live contact with fans. This is also very direct in tennis and the reaction to a slip-up is immediate and mercilessly slaps you in the face.
Q: But you don’t play an instrument…
Federer: No, not any more. I used to play piano a bit and even took lessons.
I’m so glad Roger stuck with his Plan A:
Though I do hope Roland Garros brings back the karaoke booth this year:
Thanks to the fans at rogerfederer.com for bringing this article to light.
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