Andy Roddick reveals the reason tennis fans ignore about Roger Federer after losing 21 times and missing Grand Slam dreams | International Sports News
Andy Roddick did not hold back when talking about Roger Federer, even after losing to him again and again during his career. Federer stopped Roddick from winning more Grand Slam titles many times. But now, years after retirement, Roddick speaks with respect, not frustration. On his podcast, he explained something fans often miss about Federer’s greatness.
Andy Roddick explains what fans miss about Roger Federer’s all round game
Speaking on his podcast Served with Andy Roddick, Andy Roddick said most fans focus on the beauty of Roger Federer’s game. They talk about his smooth forehand, his slice, and how easy everything looks. But Roddick believes that is only part of the story.He said players notice something very different. According to him, Federer was not just stylish, he was complete. Roddick explained that during his prime, Federer could attack and defend at the same time better than anyone before him.He said in earlier times, players usually had one main strength. For example, Pete Sampras was known for attacking, while Lleyton Hewitt was known for defense. Andre Agassi liked to stay aggressive from the baseline.But Federer, Roddick said, mixed both styles. He could stop you when you attacked, and he could also take control when needed. That balance made him very hard to beat. Roddick added that later players like Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal also developed this kind of all around game.
Andy Roddick reflects on his struggles and tactics against Roger Federer
In the same podcast episode, Andy Roddick was asked what his plan was when he faced Roger Federer. The question made him pause and laugh.There was a reason for that. Roddick played Federer 24 times and won only three matches. He lost 21 times, including seven matches in Grand Slam semifinals and finals.Roddick did not give a long tactical answer. Instead, his reaction showed how tough those matches were. Federer had answers for almost everything on the court.Even when Roddick served well, which was his biggest strength, Federer found ways to return and take control. Over time, it became clear that Federer’s mix of attack and defense made it very difficult to build a winning strategy against him.Today, Roddick speaks about those battles with honesty. There is no bitterness, only respect for how complete Federer was as a player.
