What in the world has Roger Federer been up to?

Published by Justin Visser

Roger Federer signs autographs for fans at the Laver Cup 2018 launch in Chicago; Getty Images for The Laver Cup
The lifestyle of a 20-time Grand Slam champion rarely slows down – on an off the court. Take a look at what’s been keeping Roger Federer busy before his highly-anticipated return.

Counting the hours until Roger Federer’s return?

Fans won’t have to wait much longer. Out of action since March, the Swiss tennis great has been training and is ready to grace the grass courts of Stuttgart.

There’s never a dull moment in the life a champion. Away from the court, Federer has maintained an active schedule ranging from RF Foundation visits, promotional opportunities and family beach trips.

And there was just time for a quick Twitter update before his Mercedes Cup campaign gets under way…

Here’s a snapshot of Federer’s adventures since he last swung a racquet in competition back in March…

Front cover of TIME Magazine

No stranger to the spotlight, Federer landed on the front cover for TIME Magazine’s ‘TIME 100: The Most Influential People’ issue.

Federer’s introduction was written by Bill Gates – close friend and Match for Africa doubles partner: “I’ve learned how sincerely Roger and his team are working to improve the life prospects for poor children.

“Roger knows that effective philanthropy, like great tennis, requires discipline and time.”

RF Foundation trip to Zambia

True to that statement, Federer touched down in Zambia together with his Foundation and was seen dancing with school children, kicking soccer balls and attending class.

“It is my hope that in 10 years’ time all children will have access to early childhood education in Zambia, as it is the foundation of all learning,” said Federer.

Laver Cup launch in the Windy City

There aren’t many places that Federer has yet to visit but he ticked another off the list when he launched the Laver Cup 2018 in Chicago, with some help from a few friends.

The Swiss was there to represent Team Europe while Nick Kyrgios was on hand for Team World, along with legends Rod Laver and John McEnroe, and the likes of NBA legend Scottie Pippen and World Cup winner Bastian Schweinsteiger dropped in on the 20-time Grand Slam champion.

There were visits to Chicago’s great basketball and ice hockey teams, a spot of tennis in front of the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture, and, of course, time for some pizza.

Promos, interviews and beach time

Time certainly doesn’t stand still when you’re on a break, even if you’re Roger Federer. The next stop on his itinerary was Dubai, home of the latest Rolex shop and the largest of its kind in the world.

And you never know who you’ll bump into at the beaches of Ibiza. Federer and his family hit holiday mode, signed autographs for fans and relaxed on a super yacht.

Tennis was still on the agenda though. Who is the greatest of all time? Federer weighed in on the GOAT debate via The Wall Street Journal, suggesting the title deservingly goes to 23-time Grand Slam champion Serena Williams.

And what’s more fun than going to the circus with Roger Federer? Together with the RF Foundation, Circus Knie in Switzerland hosted kids from less fortunate families for an experience they’ll remember forever.

Roger Federer visited the Circus Knie in May; Photo: RF Foundation

Roger Federer visited the Circus Knie in May; Photo: RF Foundation

Back to business

Federer skipped the claycourt season for the second year running, although he did make time for a trip to Paris and a party to celebrate 20 years on tour.

The time has now come from him to step back on court, and fans in Stuttgart have been gracing every vantage point possible as he prepares to play Mischa Zverev in his first match for 80 days.

For the 36-year-old there is the chance to regain the world No.1 ranking and the prospect of winning another Wimbledon title next month. Plenty to keep him busy.

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