"Most beautiful player I've ever seen on a tennis court" - McEnroe on Federer
ATP
John McEnroe paid tribute to Roger Federer ahead of the Swiss Maestro's retirement from professional tennis at the 2022 Laver Cup.
Like many current and former players, McEnroe is currently in London. He will witness Federer's retirement, which will be a special moment, as one chapter of tennis' history will come to an end.
McEnroe likely wouldn't have missed Federer's retirement regardless of the circumstances. However, attending it was made even easier for him, as he's the Team Captain for Team World at the Laver Cup.
It will be at this exhibition event that Federer will play his last ever tennis match. It will be on Friday, September 23rd, in the last match of the schedule, which is a doubles match.
After Federer announced his retirement, many paid tribute to the Swiss player. Now, McEnroe joined those when he talked about his fellow former ATP World No. 1 player to Eurosport.
McEnroe addressed Federer directly through the camera lens, calling him "the most beautiful player" on a tennis court. It was an emotional moment for the former American player, who clearly admires Federer.
"You're obviously a class act. I've loved watching you play, and commentating on your matches has been a privilege. You are the most beautiful player that I've ever seen on a tennis court. And I idolized Rod Laver - so that tells you something."
McEnroe was also thankful for everything that Federer has done for the sport in the past two decades. His career has been special, and it will certainly be remembered for decades.
"Thank you for everything you've done. That's all I can say. Your absolute love of the game, it rubs off on all of us. And I've got goosebumps just feeling that because it's been a pleasure to watch you these last 20 years."
