In a whimsical new advertisement promoting Swiss tourism, tennis legend Roger Federer steps away from the tennis courts and immerses himself in the tranquility of Swiss autumn. Partnering with renowned Danish actor Mads Mikkelsen, known for his roles in “Hannibal” and “Casino Royale”, the ad showcases the stunning beauty of Switzerland’s landscapes while delivering a lighthearted and unexpected plot twist.
The two-minute video opens with Mikkelsen disappearing from a film set, seeking to “feel Swiss autumn” and “connect with nature” by engaging in peculiar yet serene activities like plunging into open water, hugging trees, and even eating grass. Federer’s character, initially bemused by Mikkelsen’s antics, soon finds himself adopting the same nature-loving behavior. In the final scene, Mikkelsen, ready to shoot, asks where Federer is, only to find him hidden under a pile of leaves. “Roger, what are you doing?” Mikkelsen inquires, to which Federer replies with a knowing smile: “You know.”
The advert playfully nods to holistic lifestyles, with some fans comparing Federer’s newfound love for nature to his long-time rival Novak Djokovic’s well-documented passion for holistic health, meditation, and hiking. A fan quipped, “Federer with Mads Mikkelsen out in nature…Tree hugging… eating grass… is RF showcasing the Djokovic lifestyle?”
At 41, Federer seems to be relishing his post-retirement life, engaging in creative projects while continuing to embody Swiss elegance and charm.