Federer Meets Football Star Del Piero
World No. 1
Roger Federer took a break from Switzerland’s Davis Cup preparations on Thursday in Genova to meet Italian football star Alessandro Del Piero.
Accompanied by his wife Sonia and his brother Stefano, Del Piero presented Federer with two jerseys – one with the number 1 and the name Roger written on it, and the other bearing his own name and autograph. He also offered Federer a pair of his shoes, assuring him that "they don't stink".
Similar to Federer, a five-time recipient of the
Stefan Edberg sportsmanship award, the 34-year-old Del Piero has received accolades for his gentlemanly conduct and in 2007 was presented the Golden Foot award in recognition for his sportsmanship and playing ability.
"I have been following Roger's career for many years and I admire him very much,” said Del Piero, who often plays tennis during the summer and likes to watch it whenever he gets a chance.
Just days removed from his runner-up finish to Argentine
Juan Martin del Potro at the
US Open, Federer will attempt to take Switzerland back into the Davis Cup World Group when he leads the squad against Italy this weekend. He is scheduled to play in the second rubber Friday against
Simone Bolelli.