(ANSA) - ROME, SEPTEMBER 24 - It ended with a defeat in the career of Roger Federer, beaten with Rafa Nadal in the double in London for the Lever Cup by the American couple composed of Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe.
Winners in the first set, the Europeans were then overwhelmed by the Americans, imposed on the third set 11-9 at the supertie-break.
Immediately afterwards for the defending champion a long greeting in the center of the field where, in tears, he received the embrace of all his companions, rivals and the public.
Despite the defeat, a departure filled with affection and emotions.
"It was a wonderful day, I'm happy and I'm not sad" - Federer said after the match.
"I enjoyed every moment, from tying my shoes the last time to playing, to being here with family and friends. I made it to the end and I couldn't be happier. Playing with Rafa and cash legends next to me."
Then the tears, with him Rafa Nadal and the rest of the team cry with him.
"It's all extraordinary, I didn't want to hear myself, I wanted to say goodbye in a team competition. I've always been in a team. It was a pleasure, I wanted to feel like it was a party."
The last thank you, but not by importance, is for his wife Mirka, a former tennis player who has left the tournament since 2002: "He could have stopped me a long time ago - says Roger - and he didn't, he allowed me to continue playing and it was extraordinary ".
(HANDLE).