Roger Federer tributes flood in as tennis star's rivals pay homage to icon

Feliciano Lopez – who surpassed Federer’s record of most consecutive Grand Slam main draw appearances at Wimbledon in 2018 – shared a series of photos of himself with the 20-time Major champion on Instagram, writind: “When you know it’s going to happen one day but you’re heartbroken anyway. THANK YOU @rogerfederer, you will be missed.”

And Federer’s posts continue to attracts countless comments and replies from his competitors, with Karen Khachanov writing: “No Roger,” with a crying emoji. The tennis legend will now join Andy Roddick on the sidelines after the American retired in 2012, and he sent his old rival and friend a message.

“Cheers Roger. Thanks for the shared memories my friend. It was an honour to share time/experiences on the most hallowed grounds in our sport. Don’t be a stranger,” he tweeted.

source: express.co.uk