It was not surprising that Roger Federer and Neeraj Chopra, who carry a heavy legacy, fame, and success on their shoulders, gushed about one another at their recent meeting. Their exchange was characterized by respect, admiration, and anecdotes of success and dedication. The 20-time Grand Slam champion and the Indian Olympian and world champion met at Zurich’s La Reserve Eden au Lac for a relaxed and conversational start, courtesy of Switzerland Tourism.
It is not often that one gets to see two dedicated, charming, and passionate sportspersons who have done their respective countries proud with their achievements, occupying the same space.
“I am amazed by how much Neeraj has achieved personally and for his country through his grit and determination.
“It’s been great to meet him here in Zurich,” said Federer, the global ambassador for Switzerland Tourism.
Federer, known for his longevity and prowess on and off the tennis court, warmly welcomed Chopra who is also Switzerland Tourism’s Friendship Ambassador, to his home country, which was “a dream-come-true-moment” for the 26-year-old Indian.
“It’s a dream come true for me to meet Roger Federer here in Zurich. I have always admired his skill, his spirit of true sportsmanship and his ability to inspire millions around the world.
“Today, however, what inspired me the most was his humility and his easy-going charm that made me feel so comfortable in his presence.
“We had a wonderful time exchanging notes about our respective passions and life’s experiences on and off the field,” said Chopra.
Chopra gave the former World No. 1 an autographed Asian Games India jersey, while Federer gave Neeraj an autographed tennis racquet.
Chopra, who at the pandemic-affected Tokyo Olympics in 2021 became India’s second individual Olympic gold medallist, is aiming to duplicate the achievement in Paris later this year.
Chopra has made more history since taking home the gold medal from the Tokyo Games by winning the silver and, in an unprecedented move, the gold at the World Athletics Championships.
In Hangzhou last year, he also kept his gold medal from the Jakarta Asian Games.
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