This archive report was first published on 21 September 2019.
Switzerland's egalitarian culture is a far cry from the celebrity worship often associated with sports stars. Yet, Roger Federer's influence on the national mood is undeniable, as Forbes contributor and tennis expert, Allegro, noted: 'For one week that match was the main topic in Switzerland. People were down and sad. I think Roger doesn’t realize it, but it hit me again after this loss that he actually has an impact on the national mood.'
Despite his global fame, Federer's celebrity status remains relatively low-key in Switzerland. As his manager, Godsick, pointed out, 'It’s one of the few countries where Roger rarely needs to have security and people give him his space.' Federer still enjoys a relatively normal life, often going out to restaurants and walking down the Bahnhofstrasse in Zurich, a bustling street similar to New York's Fifth Avenue.
For Federer, Switzerland's relaxed vibe is a key factor in his longevity. As he explained, 'I really feel I can come back to Switzerland and decompress.'
However, there are polite exceptions to this rule. Earlier this year, Federer walked into a full restaurant in the mountain town of Chur unannounced, drawing only smiles or polite stares. But 10 minutes after sitting down, a Swiss family approached him to ask for a group photograph.
Federer's ability to balance his love of being in the spotlight with his need for normalcy is a testament to his adaptability. As he said, 'I’m not a huge believer in star signs and all that stuff, but I am a Leo, and I think the Leo, he likes to be the center of attention but when he likes to be.'
