"I wanted to be like Michael Jordan eventually" - When Roger Federer opened up about how he changed his cocky and confident attitude over time

Roger Federer once reflected on how he transformed his once "cocky and confident" attitude, learning to channel it positively and tame his emotions. He also shared his aspiration to build a legacy similar to that of NBA legend Michael Jordan.

In his early days, Federer was known for his fiery temperament, even facing consequences for his outbursts. One notable incident saw him smashing his racquet and tearing a courtside curtain at Switzerland’s national tennis center in Biel, which led to a week-long punishment of cleaning toilets. His coaches struggled to keep his emotions in check.

In a 2014 interview following his Cincinnati Masters title win, Federer reflected on his contrasting desires growing up. While he initially preferred to channel his intensity on the court and in press rooms, he also admired the composed demeanor of his idols, including NBA legend Michael Jordan and his former coach Stefan Edberg.

“I was like that when I was younger. But my hero was [Stefan] Edberg [now Federer's coach]. He was very humble. Even [Michael] Jordan, he always seemed like he was this elegant guy in victory and defeat. I don't know what the perception of him was in the States, but that's how I saw him. I wanted to be like that eventually,” Federer said.

He added:

“I just said I need to not go overly crazy when I win. But trends have gone the other way. When you win, everybody lies on the floor now, runs into the crowd. Sometimes I wish everybody wouldn't go crazy. Back in the day, it was a handshake and a jump over the net.”

Over time, the 20-time Major champion learned to balance his fiery passion.

Roger Federer: “I understand that people want to share their emotions, especially in our sport”

Roger Federer pictured at the 2019 French Open | Image Source: Getty

In the same 2014 interview with Sports Illustrated, Federer shared his thoughts on the "cocky and confident" attitude some tennis players display on the court. While he acknowledged that the sport now thrives on a bit of aggression and showmanship, he still viewed tennis as an "elegant" and gentleman’s game.

Federer said:

“I understand the pressure is so great on us today, the focus is so big. Everybody is like, What is he going to do? I understand that people want to share their emotions, especially in our sport when you're out there by yourself without the chance to celebrate with teammates during a match.”

“I just want the game to be represented the right way. Tennis is a very classy sport, and nobody is bigger than the game. Players come and go,” he added.

The Swiss ended his illustrious career with 20 Grand Slam titles, trailing only Rafael Nadal (22) and Novak Djokovic (24) in the Open Era of men’s tennis. After more than two decades at the top, he retired in 2022.