Two Italian girls whose rooftop tennis video went viral have received a surprise visit from Roger Federer.
The video of Vittoria Oliveri and Carola Pessina playing on the rooftops of neighbouring buildings in Finale Ligure during the COVID-19 lockdown garnered over 10 million views.
https://youtu.be/sxJ4Z56mglM
The girls thought they were preparing for another media interview when they were asked about their favourite players.
“Roger Federer. If I were to meet him, I would jump on him, or I would be starstruck,” Vittoria, 13, said.
“I would like to have Federer’s elegance while playing and (Rafa) Nadal’s power,” 11-year-old Carola added.
The girls were then left wide-eyed and speechless when Federer came out from behind a curtain. The 20-times Grand Slam champion later played some rooftop tennis with the girls before inviting them for lunch.
“I nearly fainted when he showed up,” Vittoria was quoted as saying by The Times. “He figured out the distances pretty fast and started playing shots between his legs from one roof to another, which was amazing.
“Personally, for me, that was a very special moment in my career as a tennis player to surprise a fan, or children, like I was able to with Carola and Vittoria today,” Federer said.
Partnering Barilla, not only did Federer play rooftop tennis with them, but also had a meal along with the two young tennis players. It is moments like these that reinforce the power and beauty of sport. Despite 2020 being a tough year, such moments are what bring out a silver lining.
