Story byPhoto by Lintao Zhang/Getty ImagesMax KilhamFri, January 16, 2026 at 2:30 AM UTC·2 min readRoger Federer is quite possibly the most beloved player in the history of tennis. The 20-time Grand Slam champion made his ATP debut in 1998 and went on to carve out a career any man or woman would be proud of. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThe tennis legend won 103 ATP Tour titles during his career, the last being the Swiss Indoors Championships in Basel. Photo by Harold Cunningham/Getty ImagesFederer is also well-recognised as one of the more polite and friendly figures on the tennis circuit, as has been conveyed by two American tennis stars. Jessica Pegula says Roger Federer is ‘so nice’Speaking on The Player’s Box Podcast, Jessica Pegula and her American peers weighed in on Roger Federer’s demeanour off the court. Desirae Krawcyzk, a four-time Grand Slam mixed doubles champion, said: “I love Fed [Federer.]”Pegula then chimed in, saying: “He’s so cool,” to which Madison Keys added: “He’s so cool, and he’s so nice.”AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementPegula, the 2024 US Open finalist, then noted the sociable side of Federer. She said: “He’s so nice. Everytime I see him too, he’ll come up and be so nice, like a full conversation.”Pegula’s comments may come as no real surprise to tennis fans. For years, Federer demonstrated his mild-mannered and polite behaviour, winning the hearts of onlookers. Photo by Andy Cheung/Getty ImagesEven in retirement, the Swiss superstar remains one of the most beloved sporting individuals; an icon of tennis. His success on the court most certainly helped in winning tennis fans over; as did his graceful style of play. With his one-handed backhand and smooth forehand stroke, Federer made professional tennis look easy; gliding across the court with ease while making use of his impeccable footwork. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementFederer will return to the court this week.