Roger Federer, the tennis legend, is finding a new rhythm in retirement, and it includes a touch of irony. Having competed for years without a home gym, Federer recently joked about finally setting one up – after hanging up his racquet.

Currently in China, Federer is basking in the recognition as the Shanghai Masters’ first international “Icon Athlete.” While there, he reminisced about his career’s highlights and delved into his post-retirement life.

With a touch of humor, Federer acknowledged finishing his illustrious career without a dedicated training space at home. However, retirement brought a shift in priorities. “I am trying to go to the gym three times a week,” he said, “which I can’t believe I’m actually doing.” He jokingly added, “It was like, after my career, I finally had a gym, a little bit weird, you know, to have it once I was retired.”

The impetus for this newfound dedication to fitness? The allure of exhibition matches. Federer revealed that the possibility of future exhibition appearances motivates him to maintain his gym routine. “I still like to play some exos [exhibition matches] down the road,” he shared. “So I want to stay in shape, you know. Try to look good a little bit.”

Beyond aesthetics, staying active holds a practical benefit for Federer. “I think when you move less, the body hurts more,” he explained. “So I think moving a bit is always good. It makes me feel better for sure.” His workout regime seems well-rounded, incorporating cardio, weight training, and core exercises – particularly beneficial for back health.

While his playing days are over, Federer remains connected to the sport. He confessed to following the ATP tour results “almost daily.” However, his current lifestyle with children doesn’t allow for extensive match viewing. “It’s hard for me to sit through matches,” he admitted. “Mostly highlights,” he said, referencing YouTube as his go-to source for catching glimpses of matches.

The 2023 Wimbledon final exemplifies this. “The Wimbledon final, I literally only saw a couple games that day because we’re running around with the kids and doing stuff,” he explained. Despite the limited viewing time, his competitive spirit remained. “Of course, I was curious,” he said, “I was checking the scores from time to time.” Ultimately, his focus has shifted, but his love for the game and its captivating stories endures.

Roger Federer’s post-retirement journey is one of adaptation and balance. He’s embracing a fitness routine fueled by the prospect of exhibition matches, all while staying connected to the sport he dominated for years. It’s a testament to his enduring passion for tennis, even in a new chapter of his life.