Roger Federer wasn't on the court during Andy Murray's long farewell at the 2024 Wimbledon Championships, but he was in London at the time.
Federer flew to London in anticipation of Murray's last Wimbledon singles match, but that never happened. The Brit announced that he wouldn't play singles at the event, which surprised the Swiss Maestro, who tried to be there early, anticipating that Murray would play.
In a recent interview with ESPN, Federer explained how he found out that Murray wasn't going to play singles and what happened after. The Swiss player saw Murray before his farewell doubles match but couldn't be there for the match as he had other obligations at the time.
"I wish I could’ve been there last night but I already had obligations because I didn’t know how it was gonna all play out. I actually took an earlier flight on Tuesday to be here in case he played his singles."
"As I boarded the flight, I learned Andy wasn’t playing singles. I was like ‘Oh my God.’ I was on standby. Sadly last night I couldn’t be there. I quickly went to see him before the match."
Novak Djokovic was on the court after the match, but that wasn't planned. The organizers confirmed that it was a last-minute decision, as everything was a bit chaotic.
Of course, Federer will have a chance to catch Murray playing in the mixed doubles and possibly the Olympics, even though Murray hasn't confirmed his participation. He definitely won't be playing in the singles, as he confirmed that his career in singles was over.
"Obviously Wimbledon means so much to him and his family and team. I watched all the highlights again and thought ‘amazing for him.’ Still a little more to come in the mixed and also the Olympics. Then I guess that’s it for him."
"He was there for my retirement at the Laver Cup. I was so happy he was around. I hope I get to see Andy. What an incredible career. I loved playing against him even though he beat me probably 20 times. He’s been terrific. Of course I was emotional as well yesterday."