Roger Federer’s farewell at Laver Cup proves importance of ambassadors in sport - especially snooker
The fact that Rafa Nadal was crying his eyes out as Roger Federer said goodbye to competitive tennis last week spoke volumes for the transformative effect the Swiss legend has had on his sport.
Rivalries were forgotten. This was all about respect and the acknowledgment of what the great man had contributed. Federer went from being a rather unruly youngster to an elegant, eloquent artist on and off court, oozing class in matches and media appearances.
He is the embodiment of an ambassador. Ad Sportspeople don’t choose to be role models but their public profile gives them a platform and therefore an opportunity to sell their chosen sport to the wider world.
Federer was a sponsor and broadcaster’s dream and a gift to tennis. British OpenBritish Open 2022 snooker LIVE – Williams begins title defence, Selby in action2 HOURS AGO Snooker, with its roots in working class culture, has had to fight hard for acceptance and credibility.