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Hubert Hurkacz described Roger Federer as "an incredible player and person." In the 2021 Wimbledon quarterfinal, Hurkacz ousted Federer 6-3 7-6 (4) 6-0. Hurkacz, who grew up idolizing Federer and dreaming of one day being a tennis star, got a chance to play and beat his idol on the courts where the Swiss is a true icon and legend.
"I have always loved watching Roger Federer play. He is such an incredible player and person. If I could borrow something from his game, it would definitely be the way he was committed to his shots, to his plan and to his ideas.
That was something really incredible," Hurkacz told Relevant Tennis.
Hubert Hurkacz was the last player to defeat Roger Federer in singles, at Wimbledon 2021.
If he could borrow something from his games "it would definitely be the way he was committed to his shots, plan, ideas" - he says.🔥
"He (Roger) is such an incredible player and person". pic.twitter.com/jdioYn5jCN — Relevant Tennis (@RelevantTennis) December 26, 2022
Hurkacz was the last player to beat Federer at a Grand Slam
Shortly exiting Wimbledon, Federer announced he was undergoing another knee surgery.
At the time, Federer was hoping to be able to return at some point during the 2022 season. Unfortunately, Federer's progress didn't make the targeted progress and the Swiss didn't make one final return to tennis. After this year's US Open, Federer announced he would be playing the Laver Cup and ending his pro career after the tournament.
Since Federer had fears regarding his knee, he decided to play just one doubles match. For the final match of his career, Federer asked Rafael Nadal to be his doubles partner. Nadal, who hinted after his US Open exit that he may take a break before returning to action, accepted Federer's offer and came to London for the Swiss' farewell.
In the end, it turned out to be a very memorable and emotional night. During Federer's retirement speech, the Swiss broke down in tears several tears. Nadal also couldn't contain his emotions and he also broke down in tears while Federer was holding his retirement speech.
In the end, 2021 Wimbledon turned out to be the final Grand Slam of Federer's season and Hurkacz was the last player to beat the Swiss in a Major.