Tennis icon Roger Federer was awarded an honorary doctorate from Dartmouth College in the US on Sunday and delivered a commencement speech brimming with inspiring life lessons. Federer, 42, received the Doctor of Humane Letters degree for his philanthropic endeavors.
During his 25-minute address to the Class of 2024, Federer shared three key life lessons gleaned from his tennis career. He began by dispelling the notion of effortlessness, emphasizing that his success was not solely due to talent but also years of hard work.
Federer recalled how the term “effortless” often described his playing style, but he revealed the effort behind making it appear so. “I had to work very hard… to make it look easy,” he stated, highlighting the frustrations and challenges he faced before mastering his game.
Another lesson Federer imparted was the importance of resilience in the face of defeat. He recounted his loss to Rafael Nadal at the Wimbledon 2008 finals, acknowledging that despite his hardest efforts, victory is never guaranteed. “You can work harder than you thought possible… and still lose. I have,” he admitted, emphasizing the need to persevere and continue competing.
Lastly, Federer emphasized that life extends beyond the confines of the tennis court. While he dedicated much time and effort to his career, he never lost sight of the world outside. “Life is bigger than the court,” he asserted, underscoring the importance of maintaining a balanced life filled with travel, culture, friendships, and family.
Federer also spoke about his passion for travel, not just as a tourist but also for his philanthropic initiatives, highlighting the significance of giving back to the community.