There have been endless statistics that have interested fans over the years, and the numbers behind Roger Federer’s brilliant career so far have proved just why he deserves the GOAT title.
But outside of his excellent gameplay and what appears to be endless stamina, Roger Federer leads a well-rounded life off the court as well.
Here are 5 things you may not have known about the Swiss ace:
#1 He used to be vegetarian
Until well into his teens, Roger Federer did not eat meat – by choice! The Swiss ace was not forced or guided by any family or beliefs, but until he was 14 would not touch non-vegetarian food.
At 14, he joined full-time tennis training – at a camp, and began eating meat then. That experience, he said, taught him how to eat anything to survive.
Now, Roger Federer eats meat and does not adhere to any specifically known diet.
2.He’s a keen swimmer
Roger Federer no doubt does a variety of exercises to stay fit off the court, but one of his favourite activities is swimming!
The former No. 1, one of the richest sportspersons in history, has an extensive property portfolio, and is said to have swimming facilities at every home he owns.
He is also believed to own a holiday home in perhaps the ultimate swimming destination – the Maldives – where the ocean is his swimming pool!
3.He’s close friends with Tiger Woods
Both have been the best in their respective sports, and there is an unprecedented level of dedication and hard work that goes into it.
That shared experience is likely a key factor in the close friendship of Roger Federer with Tiger Woods.
Federer, who with wife Mirka has been one of sport’s ideal couples, has never commented on the golfer’s scandalous personal life, which likely contributed significantly to his downfall in the sport.
- He plays the piano!
Roger Federer is a man of many talents, and extremely fit. In addition to being one of the greatest sportsmen of all time, and a good swimmer, the fit Federer also has musical pursuits! He took up the piano as a youngster, and is said to continue to play it to this day, although he has not played in public before.
He also plays the violin – as he exhibited at the Lucerne festival
That said, fun fact – tennis player Daniela Hantuchova is a trained concert pianist!
- He’s into rock music
He may play classical piano and live a sedate personal life, but Federer’s musical tastes are anything but. The ever-smiling, cheerful, calm Swiss ace has musical tastes that are decidedly more rock and roll!
His favourites? Australian hard rock band AC/DC, and American guitarist Lenny Kravitz!
We don’t know if he prefers the Bon Scott days or the Brian Johnson era – but his records are surely not going to Fly Away.
P.S – we’re not entirely sure if his son Lenny (whose full name is Lennart), is named after the guitarist. But it’s possible.
- Bonus: He’s a keen football watcher, like one of his best friends, Rafael Nadal.
Nadal’s a big fan of Real Madrid – and wants to be the president of the club in the future – but Federer is a big fan of local club FC Basel!
Who Are Roger Federer's Kids? Know All About Federer's Twins
