Customer Reviews

Roger Federer: Spirit of a Champion

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Let it be known that there are few more avid fans of tennis in general, and Roger Federer in particular, than me. Thus, it would not have taken much to satisfy my hunger for even a marginally revealing and intimate biography of the game's biggest star. Unfortunately, I'm still hungry.

The book does relate some interesting facts about Federer's childhood, his family, and his entry into the sport of tennis. Federer's maturation from a young hothead and many early losses to possibly "the greatest ever" is described, match by match. But, there is very little emotion or "meat" in what is essentially a matter-of-fact chronological recall of his career through 2008.

The author is regarded as an experienced and renowned tennis writer, which made the presentation even more disappointing. As an advanced player myself, I was hoping for a bit of analysis from a player's perspective of what sets Federer apart from the rest; his shotmaking, techniques, match preparation, mental toughness, etc. I can learn more watching Federer on television.

In fairness, Federer himself has described his off-court life as "boring." Several times throughout the book, the author states how secretive and protective Federer is of his private life. Federer is obviously very good at this, since nothing in the book reveals much the public does not already know. The author is often apologetic for Federer, at times bordering on fawning. As such, it is not a biography, but more a tribute.

For a well-written, revealing look at the seamier sides of professional tennis, read Agassi's book. As for the definitive look at Roger Federer, we're still waiting.

I have no problems with a biographer sympathizing with his subject, but in my opinion it limits the amount of truths you can uncover about someone's life. However, this is well written. The last quarter is mostly a running commentary of his important matches, but they need to be described to establish context. Please read if you are a Roger Federer fan. I am.