Roger Federer Reflects on Emotional Final Days in New Documentary

Roger Federer, one of the most celebrated athletes in tennis history, recently shared his emotional journey during the screening of his documentary, "Federer: Twelve Final Days," at the Tribeca Film Festival. The film chronicles the poignant final moments of his illustrious career, focusing on the twelve days between his retirement announcement in 2022 and his last match at a prestigious tournament. During the screening, Federer revealed that he "cried six times," expressing feelings of joy and gratitude as he reflected on his career and the support of his family and friends.

The documentary, directed by acclaimed filmmakers Asif Kapadia and Joe Sabia, offers an intimate look at Federer’s farewell from professional tennis. It features behind-the-scenes footage, including emotional moments with his family and fellow competitors, particularly his longtime rival and friend. The film captures the essence of a man who dominated the sport for over two decades, winning 20 Grand Slam titles and holding the world No. 1 ranking for a record 310 weeks.

Federer’s retirement marked the end of an era in tennis, a sport that has seen the rise of several legendary players. His rivalry with another tennis great, who emerged as a formidable competitor during his career, is a central theme in the documentary. Federer candidly discussed how the rapid ascent of this rival made him feel insecure, admitting, "I liked being at the top alone." This sentiment highlights the psychological pressures athletes face, even those at the pinnacle of their sport.

The film not only showcases Federer’s emotional farewell but also serves as a tribute to the relationships he built throughout his career. It features heartfelt tributes from fellow players, including emotional reactions from his rivals, who expressed their admiration and respect for him. One poignant moment captured in the film is the farewell between Federer and his rival, where both athletes struggled to contain their emotions, a testament to the deep bond formed through years of competition.

Critics have noted that while the documentary provides a touching portrayal of Federer’s final days, it lacks the dramatic storytelling found in other sports documentaries. Some reviews describe it as a "corporate promo" for the Federer brand, suggesting that it may not delve deeply enough into the complexities of his career and personality. However, the film's strength lies in its access to Federer’s private moments, allowing viewers to witness his reflections on retirement and the legacy he leaves behind.

As Federer transitions into retirement, he has expressed a desire to spend more time with his family, including his four children. He emphasized that he does not feel bored in retirement, stating, "I’m super relaxed and laid-back." This perspective reflects a shift from the intense competitive environment of professional sports to a more personal and family-oriented life.

"Federer: Twelve Final Days" is set to stream on Amazon Prime Video starting June 20, 2024. The documentary not only serves as a farewell to a tennis legend but also invites viewers to reflect on the emotional complexities of retirement and the relationships forged through competition. As Federer himself stated, "It’s been a perfect journey; I’d do it all over again." This sentiment encapsulates the essence of his career—a journey marked by triumph, camaraderie, and an enduring love for the game of tennis.