Stefan Edberg said Roger Federer is the "best ambassador" tennis has these days, with the Swiss Maestro having the greatness only few has.
Edberg has nothing but praises for Federer, whom the Swedish former world No. 1 has mentored for a span of two years. In an exclusive interview with Goteborg Posten, Edberg revealed that during his coaching stint, he was impressed by "Roger as person both on and off the court," and can confirm now that the 34-year-old Swiss is the sport's best representative today.
"I was far away from tennis for much time and I had another idea of how they played nowadays, it impressed me," Edberg said as translated by Tennis World USA.
"But I am especially impressed by Roger as person, both on and off court; I can confirm he is the best ambassador tennis has today. He has a greatness that few have, a charisma and interest for tennis. He has had an amazing journey and he will continue to have it for a while."
Edberg's presence has been widely regarded as crucial to Federer's effective game in the Open Era. However, the world No. 3 never won any title under the helm of the 50-year-old, leading to Federer replacing Edberg with Ivan Ljubicic prior to the start of the season.
Meanwhile, fans are close to witnessing Federer in tennis action for the first time since the Australian Open semifinal round, where the Swiss lost against Novak Djokovic.
After successfully recovering from a knee surgery that repaired a torn left meniscus sustained earlier this year, Federer made a surprising comeback at the Miami Open in Key Biscayne, Florida. However, a stomach virus forced him out to withdraw from the tournament and delay his return to the Monte Carlo Rolex Masters on Apr. 10-17.
"I feel bad for the tournament and the fans, as I have rarely ever had to withdraw at such short notice," Federer said in a statement, reports the New York Times.
"I have not felt great for a few days and unfortunately it got worse in the last 24 hours. I was really excited to have my comeback in Miami, but I am in no condition to play. I tried to warm up this morning, but it was clear that I could not compete."