Legend of his sport, the Swedish, who officiates as captain during the washing Cup, in London, returns to the retirement of the Swiss, celebrated on the night of Friday to Saturday. “The perfect end”, according to him.
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At 66, Björn Borg has lost nothing of his Nordic phlegm, which electrified crowds with his headband and long blond hair now gone to the silver. Living legend of tennis with his eleven Grand Chelem titles (six in Roland – Garros and five in Wimbledon), the Swedish was one of the first big “stars” of his sport. Even if he played 23 times against Jimmy Connors, it was his rivalry with John Mcenroe who marked the memories. “Ice Borg” and “Big Mac” only met 14 times (7-7), but their Wimbledon finals (1980 and 1981) remain engraved in the history of the game.
Man of few words, he furtively eclipsed of his Captain Bench of the Europe of La Laver Cup, Sunday September 25, to return to Roger Federer’s retirement for Le Monde, La Repubblica and The Gazzetta dello Sport.
How did you experience the farewells of Roger Federer in tennis Friday?
It was a very moving moment, having been part of this piece of history had a lot for me, because I have been his career for so many years … Roger himself was overwhelmed by emotions, but, the most Important, it was to see that it was happy that things happen like this, during “his” washing cup, with Rafa [Nadal].
You have experienced a historical rivalry with John MCENROE. That you inspired you that between Federer and Nadal?
Rafa and Roger have undoubtedly shared the greatest rivalry in the history of tennis. Of course, do not forget to include Djokovic there, but see these two cry side next Friday evening after their double was barely believable. Rafa was as sad as Roger, perhaps he was thinking about his own farewells soon? To see them play this last match and Rafa come only for this moment [the Spaniard, who must become a father in the coming days, left on Saturday with his home], it was the perfect end for Roger. Especially in front of his whole family, his fans, etc.
How would you summarize the heritage that Federer bequeathed to his sport?
Roger was one of the greatest players in tennis history. He brought him so much, he promoted his sport like no one before him. He was adored by fans all over the world. And the way he played tennis, this class, we are not about to see this anytime soon. Humanly, he was an accessible person, I consider him a friend. I will miss it as he will miss everyone.
Have you ever been jealous of his character and his interpersonal skills?
No, no (laughs).
If you had been able to borrow a blow in his game, which would have you chosen?
Without hesitation his Slicé reverse.
unlike the Swiss, you announced your retirement very early, at 26 years old in 1983. Have you fed regrets?
No, when I decided to leave the world of tennis, I was sincerely happy. Even if I was young, my decision was made [he nevertheless tried a comeback in 1991, before withdrawing definitively in 1993]. I admire to see Roger, Rafa, Novak [Djokovic] and Andy [Murray] play so long, but, for my part, I have no regrets.