Roger Federer names three legends as the key influences on his style
Roger Federer has revealed which players influenced his game most when he was developing his game as a youngster.
Federer heads into Wimbledon next week well-rested after missing clay court season and looking to add to his record eight titles at the All-England club.
“I think the style of my play comes from the players I used to admire,” said Federer when reflecting on his game.
“So Boris Becker, Stefan Edberg and Pete Sampras all played in a similar way, but they had their unique style.
“What sticks out is that they all had a one-handed backhand. That’s maybe why I have a one-handed backhand because they had one.
“There were, of course, the Jim Courier’s and Andre Agassi’s with two-handed backhands, but that inspired me to play the way I played. I used to probably chip it a lot more like Edberg and Sampras did.”
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