Roger Federer reacts to Andy Murray retirement with heartfelt tribute

ATP Tour
Roger Federer and Andy Murray shaking hands

Roger Federer says he was “sad” to hear the news that Andy Murray is approaching retirement, but paid tribute to his rival.

A tearful Murray told the world on Thursday that he plans on making this year’s Wimbledon his last after failing to recover from the hip injury that has kept him out of the game for 18 months.

Federer, though, believes the time will come when any disappointment for Murray is replaced by enormous pride.

“I was disappointed and sad, a little bit shocked, to know now we’re going to lose him at some point,” Federer said.

“But we’re going to lose everybody at some point. It’s just now that it’s definite.

“He won everything he wanted to win. Anybody would substitute their career with his.

“It’s a tough one, but on down the road he can look back on and be incredibly proud of everything he has achieved.”

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