By Richard Pagliaro | Thursday, October 9, 2025
Picture credit score: On
Roger Federer shared his gratitude for the sport—and served up newly refurbished courts in Shanghai.
The 20-time Grand Slam champion, a co-owner of Swiss sports activities and shoe model On, appeared in Shanghai this week as a part of the model’s “On Thanks for Taking part in” occasion in Shanghai, celebrating the spirit of grassroots tennis and giving again to the neighborhood.
Swiss Maestro Federer and officers from the Shanghai Xuhui District Sports activities Bureau unveiled newly renovated courts on the Shanghai Xuhui District First Youth Beginner Sports activities College. In collaboration with native companions, On upgraded the tennis courts to offer a high-level coaching setting for younger, aspiring gamers and the broader tennis neighborhood.
Federer make his mark signing the courtroom and hitting the ceremonial first serve.
Main the renovation efforts was Liu Yunzhi, a former skilled participant, referee, and tennis courtroom builder, who has constructed and renovated an unbelievable 4,000 skilled courts throughout China over the previous 27 years. As a first-hand witness to the tennis growth in China, she is aware of all too properly that entry to high-quality courts not solely impacts gamers’ technical efficiency and growth, but additionally serves as a catalyst for tennis to maneuver from a distinct segment to a mass sport.
Federer additionally took to the courtroom once more to alternate balls with younger native gamers and supply them steering, sharing his insights and fervour for the game—a serious spotlight for all in attendance.
“Coming again to Shanghai at all times feels particular,” Federer stated on the occasion. “Seeing the onerous work that goes into services like this makes you recognize the whole lot that’s taking place behind the scenes much more, and there’s actually nothing higher than seeing the sport you’re keen on being shared with a brand new era.
“It’s moments like these that present the true magic of tennis—not simply on the Grand Slams, however proper right here, on the neighborhood stage.”
Following the courtroom ceremony, Federer additionally greeted followers and retailer groups throughout a go to to the On retailer at Shanghai’s IAPM Mall.
The occasion marks the second “On Thanks for Taking part in” in China and reinforces the model’s dedication to supporting the worldwide tennis neighborhood and creating distinctive experiences that elevate the sport for everybody. In 2024, the primary occasion in Shanghai invited younger gamers from Wild Elephant—a tennis membership devoted to coaching youngsters in rural Yunnan Province—to share their desires and play with Roger Federer.
To honor the spirit of Shanghai and Roger’s signature fashion, On additionally launched the 2025 Shanghai Particular Tennis Assortment two weeks previous to the occasion. The elevated capsule of footwear and attire consists of the THE ROGER Clubhouse Ace and THE ROGER Professional Ace sneakers, together with particular attire items just like the Graphic Membership Lengthy-T, Focus Tech Hoodie, and Focus Tech Sweatpants. This assortment pays tribute to the class and quiet confidence of Roger’s fashion and celebrates town’s connection to the game.
