Federer visits his Sporthilfe godchildren: ‘I was speechless when Roger entered’

class=”sc-29f61514-0 dXbCZE”>

Suddenly everything becomes completely silent in the meeting room of the Holiday Inn Hotel next to Zurich’s indoor stadium. Someone whispers: “They are coming, they are coming!” Everyone looks enchanted at the door when Roger Federer (42) finally enters with his parents Lynette (71) and Robert (77) – and throws a “Hello zame” around with a wide grin.

The 100 or so people waiting in the room are all athlete-sponsored children that Federer supports directly through Swiss Sports Aid. Many young teenagers have been invited to the meeting, as well as some former athletes who once received a grant from the Roger Federer Foundation.

“I was speechless when Roger came in,” admits SC Bern talent Kevin Zürcher (18). Synchronized swimmer Joelle Peschl (25) says: “It’s great for all of us to meet him live. A huge honor.” And the young karateka Kevin Mischler (16) says specifically: “Thanks to Roger’s support I can participate in international tournaments – that makes me happy and would otherwise be very difficult.”

Federer meets his godchildren shortly before the start of the Super10kampf show in the Hallenstadion. There is a small aperitif and then pizza for everyone. The Federers are also taking action. Sometimes there are a few words, sometimes there is a photo.

Roger says that it used to be a financial balancing act for his parents to make everything possible for him in terms of sports. Mama Lynette once even increased her workload. “In the beginning we also received support from others. That’s why I know it’s very important to feel like someone is behind you,” said the twenty-time Grand Slam winner, who retired last year.

Papa Federer: “Talents from less fortunate backgrounds”

Since 2007, the Roger Federer Foundation has supported 168 athletes, many for several years. Papa Robert is closely involved in the selection of sponsorship. He emphasizes: “We have always ensured that the talent comes from less prosperous backgrounds. This is still a major concern for us today.” The emphasis is often on peripheral sports such as badminton, judo, chess or dancing, but also on wheelchair sports.

The most famous among Federer’s godchildren is a cyclist: Stefan Bissegger (25), last year’s European time trial champion and 2023 mixed relay world champion. He was also part of the supporting program for two years. When asked what it has given him, he says laughing: “A new bicycle.”

Meanwhile, Federer explains in the plenary session that he is always kept informed by his father and Sporthilfe: “I am your biggest fan. I hear about your successes and also about injuries.” I know there are hard days, but that also builds character.” Those who listen clap. And then the next level of nervousness begins to spread among them again. The big march to the Hallenstadion awaits. With Federer. And in front of 12,000 fans making a lot of noise during the Super10 fight.

Source : Blick