IPTL is serious but fun: Roger Federer

 

They played only a set but gave enough reasons to close to 13,000 spectators to take home memories of a lifetime. UAE Royals’ Federer lost to Nadal of the Indian Aces but the 17-time Grand Slam

winner had no complaints about it.

 

“I had a slow start and Rafa already played a match here. The season’s just beginning, so I am bound to be a bit rusty. Considering those circumstances, I played pretty well. Overall it was a great experience,” said Federer after the match.

 

Federer will now play in the Dubai leg of the tournament on December 15 and 16, followed by Singapore on 18. 

In the inaugural edition, Federer had hinted that the IPTL was equivalent to an exhibition tennis event but this time, he came in the support of the format saying “it’s serious tennis”.

 

“What is an exhibition? Is it a kids’ day exhibition where one’s hitting with Scooby Doo or is it one where 15,000 people have paid to watch us play? It is the question of who is in the crowd.

 

“To me this is serious tennis with a fun aspect of having a team high five you continuously. Call it an exhibition or not, it’s a fun concept. The legends deserve a shout out as well… they are playing at such a good level even now.”

 

Federer though was not sure of coming to India for the third edition of the event, adding that he would love to come to the country for a holiday. 

“I am not sure (about that) yet but I have loved it so far and that’s why I came here this year. But I have to see (about next year), it’s a busy year,” he said.