Almost every match that Roger Federer plays these days is accompanied by the age narrative — the talk of the ‘old, venerable’ master, who at 31, has suddenly lost a step to his younger opponents and whose invincible aura seems to be dimming with every passing match; whose time is perhaps up. There is the countdown too and then the camera pans on Federer fans sitting in the stands – a sea of red with RF logos embossed on their caps and t-shirts.
Then, there is applause as the players walk on to the court – more for Federer, some for his opponent too. Then the crowd settles in – some whisper, others remain mostly silent – taking in the moment, watching every little movement, focusing their energies on the match to follow.
So strong has been the media hype around his age and its perceived effects on his game that surely many of them wonder if he can still produce the master class that we all grew up watching.
Then the game starts.
Federer inspires people to watch the game, he makes it interesting – in a way perhaps, he inspires his opponents too. When you come up against Federer you want to give nothing but your absolute best – there is an audience that will appreciate every winner, the fight you put up is appreciated as well. And at least during the early rounds, Federer’s age, usually, doesn’t need to be mentioned. The first week is for tuning and cruising to easy wins.
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