'Close to my heart' - Felix Auger-Aliassime reveals what Roger Federer said to him in Laver Cup farewell

Rising star Felix Auger-Aliassime has revealed what his idol, Roger Federer, said to him after his final professional tennis match at the Laver Cup. Matteo Berrettini gave Team Europe a 4-2 lead over Team World after beating Auger-Aliassime 7-6(11) 4-6 10-7 early on day two at the O2 Arena in London. Ad But Auger-Aliassime was certainly not downbeat as he chatted with Eurosport about the incredible impact Federer has had on his career and how fortunate he feels to be a part of the huge occasion.

Laver Cup'One of the greatest athletes of all time' — Djokovic admits 'sadness' over Federer retirement21 MINUTES AGO «It was funny to hold him up when we celebrated him like the champion he is,» Auger-Aliassime told Eurosport. «It was very emotional — good emotions — and obviously, you reminisce and remember all the moments that you watched him play in huge matches and Grand Slams. Amazing points, amazing matches he has played.

»To see his greatness one last time, it was a pleasure to be there in person. As a kid, I'm still very young and just remember watching him and idolising him. It was emotional for me too.

«I felt all the emotions, and to see him so genuinely touched and Rafa and Novak and his whole family. It is special, truly special. »It just proves how big of an impact he had on the sport.