In a recent interview, tennis legend Roger Federer took a playful swipe at former American tennis star Andy Roddick, who humorously labeled Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic as “greedy” for their Grand Slam achievements. Known for their fierce on-court rivalries, the Big 3—Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic—have dominated the sport, collectively amassing a record-breaking number of Grand Slam titles, leaving little room for players like Roddick to clinch multiple championships.
Roddick, who retired in 2012, recently reflected on his tennis career with People Magazine, where he looked back on the three Wimbledon finals he lost to Federer. He noted that while he had a decorated career, winning a single Grand Slam at the 2003 US Open, he couldn’t help but think about those close calls at Wimbledon. “I would’ve been happier, have no regrets. I’m not greedy like the rest of these guys, like Rafa and Roger. And Novak,” he quipped, drawing a humorous contrast between his career and the staggering success of the Big 3.
In response, Federer, speaking to Tennis Channel, acknowledged Roddick’s sentiments with humor, pointing out how history could have taken a different course if Roddick had won their 2003 Wimbledon semifinal. “If Andy had played with Wilson at the time, he probably would have beaten me,” Federer joked, imagining an alternate outcome where Roddick’s victory could have impacted Federer’s belief in his ability to win at Wimbledon. Federer went on to acknowledge Roddick’s skill and legacy, emphasizing how close their matches often were and expressing respect for Roddick’s contributions to tennis.
Federer’s remarks bring to light the intense battles and shared respect among top players of the era. Despite Roddick’s jest about being “not greedy,” he noted feeling pride in his achievements, including his time spent as World No. 1 and his instrumental role in the U.S. Davis Cup victory in 2007. His comment about wanting “just one more” Grand Slam title highlights the challenge of competing in an era dominated by Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic.
Roddick’s reflection, coupled with Federer’s lighthearted response, offers fans a nostalgic look back at an era when tennis saw some of its most thrilling rivalries. The American, who remains the last U.S. man to win a Grand Slam singles title, joked about the “greed” of his peers but ultimately expressed contentment with his legacy, saying, “I rest well at night.”
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