Tennis champion Roger Federer’s retirement announcement has led to a flurry of posts on social media, with celebrities — from sports to films — penning heart-felt messages to the 20-times Grand Slam winner.
The 41-year-old Swiss announced his retirement on Thursday, bringing an end to an illustrious career spanning over two decades. Countless celebrities reacted to the news of Federer’s retirement. Here’s what they had to say:
Rafael Nadal
Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer’s long time rival on court, expressed his gratitude for having the opportunity to play with Federer, and shared pictures of the two together.
Lionel Messi
Argentine footballer Lionel Messi shared an emotional tribute. “A genius, unique in the history of tennis and an example for any athlete. All the best in your new stage, we will miss seeing you on the court making us enjoy,” the soccer superstar wrote to the tennis superstar in Spanish.
Serena Williams
“Retirement just got the GOAT (Greatest Of All Times),” wrote the other GOAT in women’s tennis, Serena Williams. The fellow Grand Slam winner, who also announced her retirement recently, had the perfect message for Federer in which she applauded him for all his achievements.
Farhan Akhtar
Actor-director Farhan Akhtar shared a short and sweet message for Federer, highlighting his incredible achievements.
@faroutakhtar/Instagram
Anisha Padukone
Professional golfer and Deepika Padukone’s younger sister Anisha Padukone shared a throwback picture with Federer. “What sets him apart is not just what he could do on a tennis court, but also the wonderful person that he is. There never was, and never will be another RF,” she wrote on Instagram alongside her picture with the legendary sportsman.
Vikrant Massey
Love Hostel actor Vikrant Massey took to Instagram to thank Federer for his memories associated with tennis.
Kareena Kapoor Khan
Kareena Kapoor Khan shared an Instagram story with pictures of Federer’s retirement post and called him a “Legend”.
@kareenakapoorkhan/Instagram
Anushka Sharma
Anushka Sharma also seemed overwhelmed by the development. She shared Federer’s video announcement on her Instagram story and wrote, “Genius”.
@anushkasharma/Instagram
