Tennis legend Roger Federer has found himself at the center of a social media storm after making controversial remarks about the new generation of tennis players during a recent interview.
Speaking at a private event hosted by a luxury watch brand, Federer was asked about the current crop of rising stars. His response raised eyebrows:
“They have the talent, sure, but many lack discipline and respect for the tradition of the sport. It’s not just about power and Instagram followers.”
Within hours, clips of the interview went viral, sparking backlash from fans, players, and commentators alike. Many perceived Federer’s comments as a direct jab at popular Gen Z stars like Carlos Alcaraz, Holger Rune, and Jannik Sinner—players known not only for their skill but also for their bold personalities and massive online presence.
“Is Federer out of touch?” tweeted one user. “He had his era, but maybe he’s not ready to pass the torch.”
Others defended the 20-time Grand Slam champion, arguing that Federer was merely promoting values that made him a global icon: elegance, humility, and tradition.
But the younger players weren’t silent. In a cryptic Instagram story, Rune wrote, “Respect goes both ways.” Meanwhile, Alcaraz responded in a press conference, saying, “We all admire Roger, but we’re writing our own story now.”
Tennis pundits are now calling for Federer to clarify his remarks. Some even suggest this could tarnish his reputation as a role model to millions.
As the debate rages, one thing is clear: the generational shift in tennis isn’t just happening on the court—it’s playing out in headlines too.
