Roger Federer and Carlos Alcaraz were spotted together at the 2024 Shanghai Masters final, where they witnessed Jannik Sinner emerge victorious over Novak Djokovic. The unexpected duo of Federer and Alcaraz caught the attention of many fans, who were surprised to see them bonding despite their different professional paths in the tennis world. The final saw Sinner defeating Djokovic in straight sets, with a score of 7-6, 6-3, to claim the championship title.
Unexpected Friendship at the Shanghai Masters
The presence of Carlos Alcaraz at the Shanghai Masters final raised eyebrows as he had already been eliminated in the quarter-finals. Despite his early exit from the tournament, Alcaraz stayed in Shanghai due to his upcoming participation in the Six Kings Slam exhibition in Saudi Arabia, where he would be competing against Djokovic and Sinner. Federer and Alcaraz share a connection through their partnership with Rolex, the luxury watchmaker that serves as the title sponsor of the Shanghai Masters.
A Missed Opportunity and a Shared Bond
In a surprising revelation, Federer admitted that he had declined an opportunity to train with Alcaraz when the young Spaniard was still a teenager. The two had previously practiced together at Wimbledon, with Federer opting to warm up with Alcaraz’s coach, Juan Carlos Ferrero, instead of the rising star himself. Despite this missed opportunity, the bond between Federer and Alcaraz remains strong, fueled by their shared experiences on and off the court.
Financial Repercussions and Missed Opportunities
Alcaraz’s ankle injury forced him to withdraw from the 2025 Shanghai Open, marking the third Masters 1000 event he had missed that year. This absence could have significant financial consequences for the young tennis star, as skipping multiple Masters 1000 events could result in a substantial reduction in his bonus earnings. Alcaraz’s decision to prioritize his health and recovery over competition highlights the challenges and sacrifices professional athletes often face in their careers.
As Alcaraz navigates the ups and downs of the tennis circuit, his resilience and determination continue to shine through, inspiring fans and fellow players alike. Despite the setbacks and challenges he has encountered, Alcaraz remains focused on his goals and committed to his journey in the world of professional tennis. With the unwavering support of his team and fans, Alcaraz is poised to overcome obstacles and emerge stronger than ever, ready to take on whatever the future holds in store.
