Published: Nov 06, 2013, 11:08 AM (IST)
Edited: Nov 06, 2013, 11:08 AM (IST)
Roger Federer (left) with Sachin Tendulkar during the 2011 Wimbledon Tennis Championships © Getty Images
Nov 6, 2013
Tennis icon Roger Federer, who is also a friend of Indian batting legend Sachin Tendulkar, has congratulated the Little Master on a glorious career in cricket saying that he is pleased to see Tendulkar going out on his own terms.
Federer told Times of India, “It is always sad when the curtains come down on a great career. I’m really happy for him that he can go out on his terms, at the time he has chosen, at a venue of his choice. That’s really great. I hope his farewell game is everything he wants it to be. He deserves it.”
When Tendulkar’s name was brought up in an interview, Federer, with a gleaning smile expressed, “Hey! I’m a cricketer too,” before smilingly saying, “at heart.”
Federer’s mother Lynette is South African and that is how the Tennis legend developed interest for the gentleman’s game. Tendulkar will bid good-bye to Test cricket after playing his 200th Test match at Wankhede Stadium later this month.
“I wish him a great life after cricket. Hope it is as exciting and memorable as his cricket,” Federer said.
According to Federer, he has kept track of Tendulkar’s career and has watched him bat on many occasions on television. “I’ve seen him play, not as much as I would’ve liked, but I’ve watched him on television several times,” Federer informed.
The two iconic sporting legends met at the manicured lawns of Wimbledon in 2011. Talking about the meeting, Federer recalled, “I’m glad I got to meet him, we had tea in the terrace at Wimbledon. I remember the meeting clearly. Enjoy meeting great athletes. It is an experience for me. I like picking their brains, seeing how it works. I enjoyed my time with Sachin.”
