Even though he has stated multiple times that he does not want to start coaching, the great Swiss player Roger Federer declares that he is willing to make one exception in this regard, for an exceptional player.
The only exception Federer, the former world number one, winner of 20 Grand Slam trophies, would make, would be for his son Leo, but there he sees himself only as a manager, without putting any pressure on his son’s results.
On the occasion of the announcement of his inclusion in the Tennis Hall of Fame 2026, Federer granted an extensive interview to the publication Tages-Anzeiger, in which he talked, among other things, about his son. He clearly mentioned that he will not return to the circuit as a coach, although many theories have been speculated about this in the past.
"No, I am not his coach. If my children need me, I am here. I am happy to help, and with other children too. But the training must be done by someone else. I see myself more as Leo's manager. I haven't pushed him in this direction for a long time. But for about a year, since I noticed that he is more eager to play, I try to offer him opportunities. At this age, you need to train and play enough".
The Swiss is currently in charge of everything related to the development of his son Leo Federer, his behind-the-scenes role being clear and well established: "I make sure Leo has good coaches and training partners. Organizing all these things requires a lot of work. You can't just send him somewhere and see what happens".
And the results, even though not a priority, are encouraging: "I think Leo is doing very well. He even plays in tournaments from time to time. It's fascinating for me to watch his progress. I am less concerned about the results and more about his joy and development".
Federer retired from tennis definitively in 2022, at the Laver Cup, a competition he himself created, a battle between the two major parts of the world, Europe vs Rest of the World.
D.A.