Top 5 Most Important Wins in Roger Federer’s Career

By goatoftennis / In Roger Federer / February 19, 2025

Roger Federer is widely regarded as one of the greatest tennis players of all time, with an illustrious career spanning over two decades. His legacy is built on record-breaking achievements, unmatched elegance, and remarkable victories that defined his journey. Among his countless triumphs, some wins stand out as truly historic, shaping his career and cementing his status as a tennis icon. Here are the top five most important wins in Roger Federer’s career:

1. 2001 Wimbledon – Fourth Round vs. Pete Sampras

A 19-year-old Federer announced his arrival on the biggest stage by defeating seven-time Wimbledon champion Pete Sampras in an epic five-set battle (7-6, 5-7, 6-4, 6-7, 7-5). This victory was significant because it marked the passing of the torch from Sampras to Federer as the next dominant force in tennis. It was the first and only time these two legends faced each other, and Federer’s poise under pressure proved he was destined for greatness.

2. 2003 Wimbledon Final vs. Mark Philippoussis

Federer claimed his first-ever Grand Slam title by defeating Australia’s Mark Philippoussis in straight sets (7-6, 6-2, 7-6). This victory was a turning point in his career, as it signaled the beginning of his Grand Slam dominance. It was also an emotional win, with Federer breaking down in tears after lifting the trophy, knowing he had finally fulfilled his childhood dream.

3. 2009 Wimbledon Final vs. Andy Roddick

This match is considered one of the greatest Wimbledon finals in history. Federer battled Andy Roddick in a grueling five-set thriller, eventually winning 5-7, 7-6, 7-6, 3-6, 16-14. The victory gave Federer his 15th Grand Slam title, surpassing Pete Sampras’ record of 14, and further solidified his GOAT status. Roddick played one of the best matches of his career, but Federer’s resilience and clutch serving in the final set ensured he emerged victorious in an unforgettable classic.

4. 2009 French Open Final vs. Robin Soderling

Winning the French Open was the most elusive achievement for Federer until this moment. After years of heartbreaking losses to Rafael Nadal on the clay courts of Roland Garros, Federer finally seized the opportunity when Nadal was defeated earlier in the tournament. Federer defeated Sweden’s Robin Soderling in straight sets (6-1, 7-6, 6-4) to complete the Career Grand Slam and tie Sampras’ record of 14 major titles. It was a historic moment that filled the only gap in his remarkable resume.

5. 2017 Australian Open Final vs. Rafael Nadal

After six months away from the sport due to injury, Federer made a triumphant comeback in the 2017 Australian Open. Facing his greatest rival, Rafael Nadal, in the final, Federer produced one of the most thrilling performances of his career. In a five-set battle (6-4, 3-6, 6-1, 3-6, 6-3), Federer overcame a 1-3 deficit in the final set to secure his 18th Grand Slam title. This win was especially significant because it reignited his career and led to a late resurgence that saw him win three more majors.

Conclusion

Roger Federer’s career is filled with countless iconic victories, but these five stand out as defining moments that shaped his legacy. From his breakthrough against Sampras to his emotional triumph in Melbourne at age 35, Federer’s journey has been a testament to skill, perseverance, and sheer greatness. These victories not only established him as a legend but also continue to inspire generations of tennis fans and players worldwide.

Tags: Andy Roddick, Federer, Mark Philippoussis, Matches, Nadal, Pete Sampras, Rafael, Robin Soderling, Roger, Wins

Facts about the history of tennis

1. Tennis Traces Its Roots to the 12th Century

The origins of tennis date back to 12th-century France, where monks played a game called jeu de paume (game of the palm). Instead of rackets, they used their hands to hit the ball against walls or over a rope. Over time, wooden paddles were introduced, evolving into the modern racket.

2. The Word “Tennis” Comes from French

The term “tennis” originates from the French word tenez, meaning “take” or “receive.” It was commonly shouted by players before serving the ball in jeu de paume, much like today’s “Let’s go!” or “Play!” in modern tennis matches.

3. Wimbledon Is the Oldest Tennis Tournament

Established in 1877, Wimbledon is the world’s oldest and most prestigious tennis tournament. It was originally played at the All England Croquet and Lawn Tennis Club with only 22 male participants. Women’s singles and doubles were introduced later, in 1884.

4. The First Tennis Balls Were Made of Wood

Before the modern rubberized tennis balls, early versions were made of solid wood or leather stuffed with hair or wool. In the 19th century, Charles Goodyear’s discovery of vulcanized rubber revolutionized the game, leading to the bouncy balls we use today.

5. The Grand Slam Term Came from Bridge, Not Tennis

The term “Grand Slam” originally came from the card game bridge, where it referred to winning all possible tricks in a hand. It was later adopted in the 1930s to describe winning all four major tennis tournaments (Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon, and US Open) in a single year.

6. The First Women’s Tennis Star Was Suzanne Lenglen

French tennis legend Suzanne Lenglen dominated women’s tennis in the 1920s, winning six Wimbledon titles. She was known for her flamboyant style, graceful play, and for breaking societal norms by wearing knee-length dresses instead of the traditional ankle-length attire.

7. Tennis Was Originally an Olympic Sport, Then Got Dropped

Tennis was part of the first modern Olympics in 1896 but was removed from the Games in 1924 due to disputes over amateurism. It took 64 years for tennis to return as an official Olympic sport at the 1988 Seoul Olympics.

8. The Open Era Changed Tennis Forever

Before 1968, professional players were banned from competing in Grand Slam tournaments. The introduction of the Open Era allowed both amateurs and professionals to compete together, paving the way for stars like Rod Laver, Björn Borg, and Serena Williams.

9. The Longest Tennis Match Lasted Over 11 Hours

At Wimbledon 2010, John Isner and Nicolas Mahut played the longest match in tennis history, lasting 11 hours and 5 minutes over three days. The final set alone took 8 hours and 11 minutes, with Isner winning 70-68. This epic battle led to rule changes introducing final-set tiebreaks at major tournaments.

10. The Fastest Recorded Serve Exceeded 263 km/h

Australian player Sam Groth holds the record for the fastest tennis serve, clocking in at 263.4 km/h (163.7 mph) during a Challenger match in 2012. In the women’s game, the fastest serve belongs to Sabine Lisicki at 210.8 km/h (131.0 mph).

Top 5 Most Important Wins in Roger Federer’s Career

1. 2001 Wimbledon – Fourth Round vs. Pete Sampras

2. 2003 Wimbledon Final vs. Mark Philippoussis

3. 2009 Wimbledon Final vs. Andy Roddick

4. 2009 French Open Final vs. Robin Soderling

5. 2017 Australian Open Final vs. Rafael Nadal

Conclusion

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Facts about the history of tennis

Top 5 Most Important Wins in Roger Federer’s Career

1. 2001 Wimbledon – Fourth Round vs. Pete Sampras

2. 2003 Wimbledon Final vs. Mark Philippoussis

3. 2009 Wimbledon Final vs. Andy Roddick

4. 2009 French Open Final vs. Robin Soderling

5. 2017 Australian Open Final vs. Rafael Nadal

Conclusion

Leave a Comment Cancel

Who is the best tennis player of all time in your opinion?

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Facts about the history of tennis