One or two years ago, I didn't know who I was on court and I used to swear a lot. But now I've learned how to cope and can therefore win 10 matches in a row. I want to be remembered as a good player rather than an idiot on court.
I am extremely proud and honoured to have beaten Pete's record as he was my childhood hero and I have always looked up to him.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote expresses pride in achieving a significant personal milestone while honoring a childhood idol.
In this quote, Roger Federer reflects on his achievement of surpassing a record held by his childhood hero, Pete Sampras. It highlights the deep respect and admiration he has for Sampras, acknowledging that his success is not only a personal triumph but also an emotional tribute to someone who inspired him in his formative years. This sentiment emphasizes the blend of personal ambition and the influence of role models in one's journey toward greatness.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech during an award ceremony, one could quote Federer to illustrate the importance of honoring mentors.
More from Roger Federer
All quotes βWinning or losing, it's always something special and something you'll remember, even more so when the match was as dramatic as it was today. It's even more memorable when I see my kids there with my wife and everything. That's what touched me the most, to be quite honest. The disappointment of the match itself went pretty quickly.
I was aware of how incredible the match was. Unfortunately there had to be a winner. From my point of view many left feeling sorry for me instead of being happy for Rafa. Which hurts.
I never waited 27 years, because 27 years ago I was just born. My parents never told me, 'If you don't win Roland Garros we take you to the orphanage.
Seriously. I'm not playing to prove anything to journalists. I'm playing for myself, for my fans,to make people happy.
I hope so. God, I've practiced so much that I you don't want to be worse five years later. I feel I have a great game today. I know how hard it is to pull off those great shots, and I know how easy it is to miss, so I'm more aware of these things. But I'm so happy I'm at the age I am right now because I had such a great run and I know there's still more possible.
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Success as I see it is a result, not a goal.