Andy Roddick admits he felt "emotional" watching Roger Federer's retirement ceremony, even though the Swiss tennis icon "ruined" his life.
If you can recall, Federer is the only and the biggest reason why Roddick concluded his career with only one Grand Slam title. Days after celebrating his 21st birthday, the American defeated Juan Carlos Ferrero in the 2003 US Open final. Over the next five years, the former world No. 1 reached four additional Grand Slam finals - but never again lifted a title on the biggest stage after the Swiss handed him defeats in the 2004, 2005 and 2009 Wimbledon title matches, as well as in the 2006 US Open final.
Roddick, who retired from pro tennis in 2012, has spoken numerous times about regretting never winning Wimbledon. But when Federer - the player who gave him his most painful defeats - decided to retire at the 2022 Laver Cup, the American still felt emotional watching him go.
Roddick to Federer: You ruined my life but I was still emotional when watching your retirement farewell
Roddick hosted Federer on his Served podcast and the two had a great chatter.
"It's fine! Guys, he's still here. He still has great hair. I know we were all, I mean, you ruined my life for a decade and I was still emotional when I was watching, right? And the fact that Rafa was there, that Novak was there, and yeah, maybe imperfect, maybe not... How quickly you wanted to retire. Health came [first] for you at a certain point," the American tennis legend said on his podcast.
During his prime years, Roddick was widely regarded as one of the most dominant players on grass - and if not for Federer - the American would have likely enjoyed a few triumphant runs at The Championships.
