Roger Federer has only been a year away from all the tennis hoopla, but it’s clear just how much the sports community has missed him. In every public event he went to, his presence did not go unrecognized. He’s even been dragged to several tennis events to bid one last farewell to its audience, namely Wimbledon, Halle, Laver Cup- Vancouver edition, and most recently at the Rolex Shanghai Masters, where he was awarded the ‘Icon Athlete Award.’
How much the public rejoices in his appearances and how much the media lauds him wherever he goes are testaments to how well-loved he is as an athlete.
And this was once reflected in Andrea Bocelli’s concert.
Federer becomes emotional
Andrea Bocelli was on a tour, and one of his stops happened to be Switzerland—Federer’s home country.
Not letting the moment slip by, Federer attended the Italian blind tenor’s concert.
He was, however, slightly taken aback (but concealed it with a smile) when, during the last moments of the concert, Bocelli acknowledged him and subsequently invited him to the stage for the last song.
As Federer climbed up the stage, there was a roar of cheers and a long round of applause for the tennis legend at the Hallenstadion venue. He then greeted Bocelli with a hug.
Bocelli sang his closing number, ‘Nessun Dorma’, with Federer by his left side. As the song was nearing its end, the 20-time grand slam champion could be seen in a vulnerable state, crying and sweeping the tears from his eyes as he continued to listen to Bocelli’s magnificent voice.
Federer has a reputation for being emotional, but who wouldn’t cry tears of joy once you’ve realized you’ve come far and are capable of winning big tournaments?
Likewise, who wouldn’t be overwhelmed with emotions when a musical legend recognizes your talent and wants you to be on stage with him?
The moment was beautiful and was quickly shared on social media, with fans commending Federer for not being ashamed to show his emotions.
Andrea Bocelli dedicated a part of his performance to Roger Federer last night.
“Among us tonight is a living legend, Roger Federer. For me it’s an honor to dedicate the last aria to him, for the emotions he gave everyone”
Roger was moved to tears. 🥹
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) November 21, 2023
Following the concert, Bocelli posted a touching tribute to Federer on his official Instagram account, writing in the closing paragraph, “I myself had the privilege of shaking his hand on stage in Zurich. It was a true honor to dedicate my last song, one of opera’s best-known victory anthems, to him.”
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