Roger Federer's ‘Tennis Lessons’ from Dartmouth Graduation Speech Goes Viral

The greatest of all time Roger Federer served up the perfect Graduation Speech at Dartmouth University invoking tennis lessons from his illustrious career that saw him win 20-grand slam titles and it was no surprise that the speech has now gone viral on social media.

Federer talked about how being Effortless – something his style of play has always been associated with – is merely a myth and how life is bigger than the court. “People would say my play was effortless," said Federer, who was known for his graceful style on court. In fact, Federer said he worked hard to perfect his technique and be patient and disciplined and is proudest of victories he earned when the competition became fierce.

“Because they prove that you can win not just when you are at your best, but especially when you aren’t. Most of the time it’s not about having a gift. It’s about having grit."

Federer’s second lesson: perfection is impossible. “In the 1,526 singles matches I played in my career, I won almost 80% of those matches." Yet he won only 54% of the points he played.

“When you’re playing a point, it is the most important thing in the world," he explained. “But the truth is, whatever game you play in life, sometimes you’re going to lose. A point, a match, a season, a job: it’s a roller coaster, with many ups and downs."

Third, Federer reminded the audience, the world is much bigger than a tennis court.

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“Even when I was in the top five, it was important to me to have a rewarding life, full of travel, culture, friendships, and especially family," he said.

Beginning his professional tennis career at 16, Federer never attended college, and he said receiving a Doctor of Humane Letters degree from Dartmouth was his “most unexpected victory ever."

“I am so excited to join you today. Really, you have no idea how excited I am. Keep in mind, this is literally the second time I have ever set foot on a college campus. Second time ever. But for some reason, you are giving me a doctorate degree. I just came here to give a speech, but I get to go home as “Dr. Roger." That’s a pretty nice bonus. “Dr. Roger." This has to be my most unexpected victory ever!," added Federer.