Sep 23, 2022; London, United Kingdom; Roger Federer (SUI) arrives on court for the evening session of the Laver Cup tennis matches. Peter van den Berg-USA TODAY Sports

Roger Federer says emotional goodbye to tennis: 'It's been a perfect journey, I would do it all over again'

By Mike Santa Barbara | Last updated 9/23/22

Tennis legend Roger Federer has played the final match of his storied career.

On Friday, Federer stepped onto the court one last time, participating in the Laver Cup international tournament in London, England.

After he and doubles partner Rafael Nadal fell to Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe, Federer took center stage. Speaking to the crowd after the match, Federer reflected on his final day as a professional tennis player.

"It's been a wonderful day. I told the guys, 'I'm happy, I'm not sad,' so it feels great to be here," Federer said. "I enjoyed tying my shoes one more time, and everything was the last time."

If there's one thing you watch today, make it this.#LaverCup | @rogerfederer pic.twitter.com/Ks9JqEeR6B
— Laver Cup (@LaverCup) September 23, 2022

Surrounded by friends and family while playing alongside former rivals, Federer couldn't picture a better way to end his career.

"I wanted to feel like this at the end and it is exactly what I hoped for so thank you," Federer said. "It has been a perfect journey and I would do it all over again."

Lastly, Federer thanked his wife, Mirka.

"She could've stopped me a long, long time ago, but she didn't," Federer said. "She kept me going and allowed me to play. She's amazing."

Federer ends his career with an overall record of 1,251-275, winning 103 titles.

A multiple-time winner of the Australian Open, U.S. Open, and Wimbledon, Federer walks away from the game with 20 Grand Slam titles. Only Novak Djokovic (21) and Rafael Nada (22) have more.

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