The emotional conclusion of Roger Federer’s illustrious tennis career is set to be unveiled in an intimate documentary, initially intended solely for personal recollection but now slated for release on Prime Video.
Directed by Asif Kapadia and Joe Sabia, the film delves into the final 12 days of Federer’s journey, capturing his most vulnerable moments as he bids farewell to the sport that has shaped his life for over two decades.
Federer’s retirement, a poignant moment marked by his participation in the Laver Cup 2022, witnessed his closest rivals Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and Andy Murray standing by his side as he took his final bow on the court.
The documentary promises an insider’s view into Federer’s emotional state during this period, offering unprecedented access to his relationships with his fellow tennis icons.
Originally conceived as a personal keepsake, the project evolved into a profound exploration of Federer’s farewell, providing viewers with an intimate glimpse into his world.
Reflecting on the transition from private memoir to public documentary, Federer expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to share his story with a global audience, citing Prime Video’s expansive reach and influence in the film industry.
Federer’s retirement marked the end of a remarkable career marred by a prolonged struggle with a knee injury.
Despite his determination to overcome physical setbacks, the former world No. 1 ultimately made the difficult decision to heed his body’s signals and bid farewell to professional tennis.
Here is what Federer said of the documentary: “Initially, the idea was to capture the final moments of my professional tennis career so that I could have it later on to show my family and friends,” Federer explained. “During my career, I tended to shy away from having cameras around me and my family, especially during important moments. But I didn’t see the harm in shooting this as it was never intended for the public.”
Explaining his decision to turn it into a documentary for Prime Video, he added: “However, we captured so many powerful moments, and it transformed into a deeply personal journey. I am happy to be partnering with Prime Video because of their vast global reach and significant presence in the film industry. This ensures that the story of my final days in tennis will resonate with both tennis enthusiasts and broader audiences worldwide.”
His final appearance at the Laver Cup, surrounded by his esteemed colleagues, serves as a fitting conclusion to a legendary chapter in the sport’s history.