After two rounds, Roger Federer’s straightforward, quick wins have kept him out of the U.S. Open’s early headlines, except when he dismissed the idea that the record number of ATP retirements in Flushing meant that the men needed to adopt a heat policy like the WTA’s. Of course, short matches, a smooth style, and a naturally un-sweaty nature have helped, but let’s see what else Roger has done this week to stay cool.
1. Photobombing Simona
Trying to concentrate on the @ESPNTennis set is tough when this guy is walking my way 😝 #federer pic.twitter.com/H0xsCAJWi1
— Simona Halep (@Simona_Halep) September 4, 2015
How is it that the most low key team in tennis looks like a Reservoir Dogs poster when walking around the practice courts?
2. Hitting With Stefan
Those who are intrepid enough to brave the crowds at the practice courts have the distinct pleasure of seeing Stefan Edberg hitting with Federer more often than not. Watching them hit together, one can see how the fluid stylings of the Swede fit Federer and also have helped to keep Edberg in great shape into his 50s. But, there are other things that Stefan can help with:
Stefan: Good hit, Roger.
Roger: Thanks, Stefan. It’s so cool that I’m hitting with you.
Stefan: [uncomfortable silence][blinks]
Roger: Sorry, I didn’t mean to get all crazy.
Stefan: Not at all, Roger.
Roger: Stefan, can I ask you something?
Stefan: Sure.
Roger: We’ve been out here for an hour, and it’s pretty sunny. How is your hair still so perfect?
Stefan: Yours isn’t bad either, Roger.
Roger: So, you’re not going to tell me.
Stefan: I’d need a raise first.
3. Family Time!
One of the best @rogerfederer off-court moments ever. #USOpen @ESPNTennis @Tennis @NeverlandBway pic.twitter.com/4HUuZbD239
— Jonathan Scott (@jonscott9) September 4, 2015
I like the idea that family time with the Federers involves Roger explaining his tears to a pair of unimpressed kindergartners. For what it’s worth, I cried at Finding Neverland, too, and the musical is a sanitized version of real life events with a hammy Frasier as Captain Hook and a happier than real life ending. If Roger looked into what really happened to the Llewelyn Davies boys after the events of the play, he would still be crying.
