Roger Federer starred as an unknown model in a 2022 art exhibition created by Swiss-born artist Ugo Rondinone.
As part of Rondinone's “burn shine fly” series, Federer had body parts moulded in silicone whilst he was suspended from the ceiling at the Venice Biennale museum in Venice, Italy. Despite Federer's physical discomfort with helping to create the sculpture, the 20-time Grand Slam champion showed his consistent professionalism to help Rondinone complete the piece.
“I told him even though my back might hurt or I feel uncomfortable under the mould or whatever the situation is, I will always make sure that the project works out perfectly.”
The figure was simply known as "Cloud Six" until Federer recently revealed his identity as one of the hanging figures.
Off the court, Federer has been a long-term admirer of famous artwork and he was positive after seeing the sculpture on display. The finished piece left him feeling reflective about his life and career since retiring from professional tennis.
“I'm a very positive person, and this is not the moment right now to be negative, because actually, I’m truly happy in my life overall"
Federer also explained how completing the model was a completely new experience for him that took him outside his comfort zone.
“On a tennis court, I have my racquet, which is like Thor’s hammer for me, in your underwear, in a harness, hanging there, it’s obviously a very different situation.”
After a 24-year career in professional tennis, Federer retired in September 2022. The former player made his last appearance alongside Rafael Nadal for Team Europa at the Laver Cup in London.
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