Roger Federer's Novak Djokovic support at Laver Cup showed how humble he is

With 20 Grand Slam singles titles, 103 ATP titles, and an incredible 310 weeks as world number one, it’s not been a bad ride for Roger Federer at the pinnacle of global tennis.

The Swiss announced his retirement from the professional game last week and made his final swansong in a doubles match at the Laver Cup, with long-time friend and rival Rafael Nadal beside him.

Federer, who had been struggling with a knee issue for the past two years, had not played a competitive match for over 12 months, but rallied to a thrilling performance alongside Nadal to give the fans one final showing, before bowing out to American pair Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe.

Despite the 41-year-old’s esteemed stature as a sporting great and disputable ‘GOAT’ of tennis, his deferential nature and humble attitude shone through right to the very end in an intriguing exchange with adversary Novak Djokovic.

During Djokovic’s assured victory over US Open semi-finalist Frances Tiafoe, Federer – on the bench to support his continental compatriot – can be seen asking if the Serb wishes for a drink, to which a breathless Djokovic replies: “Yes, some water please.”

.@rogerfederer: Always looking out for teammates.#LaverCup | @DjokerNole pic.twitter.com/qaZ8FaYsZK

It is just one such instance of Federer’s nobility and integrity that has gone in tandem with his exceptional sporting talent.

Indeed, his endearing personality is just as integral to his global stature as his ability, and such gestures only serve to stoke the fire that leaves him on a golden pedestal in the eyes of sports fans across the globe.

A further exchange between the tennis greats was spotted during Djokovic’s return to live action yesterday, with Federer providing advice as Djokovic,