On the evening of October 14, 2000 drones lit up the sky over Shenzhen Talent Park in a tribute to tennis legend Roger Federer. The display featured a giant hand tossing a tennis ball, images of Federer throughout his career, and the phrase "Dream On" before culminating in a simulated fireworks show.

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Federer, who won 20 Grand Slam men's singles titles, was recently inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame, recognizing both his remarkable achievements on the court and his dedication to promoting tennis globally. Since his first visit to China in 2002, he has participated in competitions there 17 times, boosting the visibility of tennis in the region.

As he transitions from competitive tennis to business ventures, Federer is focusing on his partnership with the Swiss sportswear brand On. Serving as a co-founder, he is involved in product design, aiming to create high-quality tennis shoes that minimize injury risks and enhance athletes' enjoyment of the game.

In an interview with media including 36Kr, Federer addressed his post-retirement role, his thoughts on football star Kylian Mbappé joining On, and the future of tennis in China.

Reflecting on his Hall of Fame induction, Federer expressed that it marked a significant milestone in his career. He fondly recalled delivering a speech to celebrate the support he received, emphasizing the meaning of the occasion amid legends of the sport. He hopes to inspire Chinese youth to aspire to similar heights in tennis.

He described his current position as one of greater freedom, allowing him to pursue collaborations and innovations in tennis equipment. When asked to summarize his career in three words, he chose "dream, hard work, and perseverance," adding that travel could be a fourth word due to his extensive international experience.

Federer shared his commitment to developing quality tennis shoes that meet the demands of competitive play while being suitable for everyday wear, citing initiatives with On to create the new THE ROGER Pro series. He is keen to ensure that contributions to tennis go beyond just footwear, aiming to promote a broader participation in sports.

Regarding Mbappé's involvement with On, Federer expressed excitement over the potential for the brand's expansion into football. He noted that having a key figure like Mbappé can enhance the team's engagement in product development and marketing strategies.

Federer also discussed the need for a robust tennis infrastructure in China, stressing the importance of accessible courts and coaching to nurture young talent. He hopes that increased participation can lead to higher levels of performance in the future. Li Na's accomplishments serve as an inspiration to young players in China, indicating the growing potential of tennis in the country.

Through his experiences in China, including competition and cultural exchanges, Federer has formed a unique bond with Chinese fans. He underscored the importance of patience and a long-term perspective for young players, noting that enjoyment and personal growth in the sport are paramount.