Accustomed to lifting trophies throughout his brilliant career, the Swiss Roger Federer could not repeat the gesture that marked him in tennis during his official farewell as he watched the World team seek a incredible return to Team Europe this Sunday and winning the Laver Cup for the first time. . in history in London.

The European team only needed a triumph in the matches scheduled for this Sunday for the Swiss farewell party to be complete. But the Mundo team did not want to know that they were again defeated in the Laver Cup and awaited the return with triumphs of the Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime in doubles alongside the American Jack Sock, then in singles, and also with American Frances Tiafoe. defining the turn at 13-8 in the final score – they entered Sunday losing by 8-4.

Federer interrupted the awards ceremony to say he would return to the Laver Cup next year in Vancouver, Canada. But not as a player. He congratulated the Mundo team, thanked his friends and the public, and joked about the loss. “I hope that wasn’t the reason.”

“I didn’t expect to speak at the end of the contest, I don’t have a speech, so that’s good,” he began, smiling. “I can only congratulate the whole Mundo team for what they have done these days. An incredible turnaround, you have well deserved it. And to my team, thank you for everything. The time spent with you here was fantastic,” he said, adding. “I hope I wasn’t the cause of the loss, but I think thanks aren’t enough. Bjorn (Borg, captain of the team ), you are the king and you know it.

As for the future, Federer assured that he will continue to accompany his friends on the circuit. “I will have a different role and position, but I will be there to support both teams. Last but not least, thank you Rod Laver. Your presence here means a lot to me and everyone. See you next year at Vancouver.

Federer finished his speech, was applauded and watched as the World Team received the trophy and celebrated the incredible victory. John McEnroe’s men started the day with a doubles duel. Aliassime and American Jack Sock took on Italian Matteo Berrettini and Englishman Andy Murray and won by 2/6, 6/3 and 10/8.

Aliassime returned to the court in the second duel of the day to face a crowded Novak Djokovic, who even sang on the court. The former world number 1 was the favorite, he opened 2-0 in the first round, but ended up being surprised by a defeat in straight sets by 6/3 and 7/6 (7/3).

The decision was for American Frances Tiafoe against Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas. The battle in three sets was decided in the super tie-break and also in a comeback. After taking 6/1 in the first round, Tiafoe found her power shot game and looked for triumph with 7/6 (13/11) and 10/8 much to the delight of the Worlds squad.