roger federer reveals which young stars impressed him most at laver cup

Roger Federer has once again highlighted the unique allure of the Laver Cup, praising its rare format that brings together the world’s top male tennis stars in a team setting rarely seen in the sport. Speaking in a recent interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, the Swiss legend emphasized how the event fosters camaraderie and inspiration among players across generations, a dynamic he finds truly special.

“The Laver Cup stands apart because in tennis, team events are scarce,” Federer explained. “Here, you see Alcaraz alongside Zverev, Jodar, and Mensik, all sharing the same squad. They spend a week with great figures like Yannick Noah. On the opposing side, you have legends like Agassi—icons who inspire. It’s also a place where the older generation can understand how young players think. I love all of that.”

Federer reserved particular praise for Carlos Alcaraz, describing the young Spaniard as a “genius on court” whose skill and shot-making variety are simply breathtaking. “Watching him play is a real pleasure. He creates an incredible number of shots, almost too many options at times, which can cause him to get a bit lost in his choices,” Federer noted.

Beyond Alcaraz, Federer was impressed by several emerging talents who flew under the radar during the Laver Cup. “I had never seen Rafael Jodar or Learner Tien play live before, and they really caught my attention,” Federer revealed. “They might be overlooked by those only focused on Alcaraz, Sinner, or Djokovic, but they are tremendously strong players with the potential to leave their mark. Experiencing a Slam-like atmosphere—with captains, pressure, and teammates watching—must have been invaluable for them.”

Federer also praised Alexander Zverev’s renewed approach, noting that the German star has finally started hitting the ball harder from the baseline as he had long advised. “It’s fantastic to have him back here. He has been one of the greatest supporters of the Laver Cup since its inception,” Federer added.

The Swiss maestro’s insights underscore the Laver Cup’s role as more than just a tournament—it’s a melting pot of tennis talent and tradition, where legends meet rising stars, and the sport’s future begins to take shape under the watchful eyes of its past.