When Roger Federer won his semifinal match against Rafael Nadal, his twins sang the happy birthday song though he was nearly four weeks away from turning 38.  Roger later explained that this is the only song his twins know and he is so overwhelmed with this. The Swiss great has often said that it is his family from where he derives the emotional strength to do well in crucial matches.

Federer later explained about the birthday song by his children:

“My kids probably thought that it was my birthday as I was being congratulated. Also, they did understand that I won the match and perhaps “happy birthday” is the only joyous song they know, all of them started singing that together. So, I am not sure how much of the tennis match did they see, but I do believe they spent an enjoyable afternoon”.

Where does Roger Federer’s family stay during his matches?

When Wimbledon was going on, all of Federer’s family was staying together in a plush house privately that was at a stone’s throw distance from the courts. According to him, the stay was so planned that he could easily repose in the domestic bliss after his matches.

During a press conference, Roger with a broad grin on his face said that once again his wife Mirka -who Federer met during the Sydney Olympics-will continue to remain his dominant supporter, as she plays a vital part in organizing all aspects of Roger’s life. Roger thinks that his wife provides him with incredible support and she is absolutely crucial to keep him motivated. He says:

Of course, I feel that she feels that it is important for me to win, so I can feel during the match how tense it is because I hear her occasionally because I know her voice. She would only cry out or scream when she is excited,’ said Federer.

“It is good that Mirka comes to the matches and enjoys it. But the kids are on her plate all the time. I have to recover and need time to do that. Especially on the day after the match. But she is continuously working and nothing would function without her so I am really happy to have her around.

‘I know how to prepare for finals in terms of seeing the physio and training. My wife and my family help a great deal.”

The “King of Grass” is not diminished by age and despite turning older, appears to be hitting newer highs and refining his playing approach. When he was asked about how Mirka is his lucky charm, he smiled and replied: “Of course, I always feel that she is essential for me when I want to win. And, no matter how tense the match is, I do occasionally hear her voice from the stands. I am familiar with her voice because she screams and cries only when she is incredibly excited”.

“It is amazing how Mirka joins me in my matches and also thoroughly enjoys it. But, kids demand most of her time. After the tournament is over, I intend to help her with that.”

“I am aware of ways to prepare for my finals, and for that, I am training hard beside consulting my physio. My family and wife are my pillars of strength and help me boundlessly”.

Courtesy – Keystone