Trevor Noah sits down with Roger Federer to reflect on the emotional final chapter of his playing career, the intimacy behind the documentary Federer: 12 Final Days, and how he’s navigating life after tennis — from family time to new ventures and the meaning of rivalry.

The documentary that wasn’t supposed to be a movie

Federer reveals the film began as private “vault” footage for his family and team, not a public release. He initially resisted having a camera crew in his daily life, fearing it would distract from his final preparations.

It was just supposed to be for the vault to put it away for my children… for my team, for my friends.

Only after director Joe Sabia assembled a cut did Federer and his team consider sharing it. Watching it back was emotional — even therapeutic — and ultimately felt worth releasing so fans could see the human side of an athlete’s farewell.

I cried a couple of times… it’s like therapy… I’m so vulnerable. And I just hope that the people think, ‘Thank you for letting me see it.’

Retirement as relief — and recalibration

Federer describes the physical and mental toll of performing at the highest level, especially in his final years. He contrasts the relentless warm-ups, recovery, and match pressure with the freedom he now feels.

I played 1,526 matches… I’m so relieved that I don’t have to go through it anymore.

He also notes the psychological shift: no more needing to know breaking news mid-dinner, no more visualizing shot patterns before bed. That mental “tennis mode” is finally switching off.

You end up visualizing it… when he goes backhand crosscourt, do I hit it back up the line?

Mirka: the partnership behind the career

A major thread is Federer’s relationship with his wife, Mirka. He recounts her own injury struggles, her decision to retire early, and how she became his “rock” through the tour’s whirlwind — first without children, then with them.

“She loved the tour through my career… being my rock really through thick and thin.”

The documentary includes rare on-camera remarks from Mirka, who largely stepped away from media years ago to avoid being the gatekeeper who says, “Roger doesn’t have time.”

Rivalry, respect, and the locker-room tears

One of the most talked-about moments is the emotional farewell to fellow players at the Laver Cup, particularly Rafael Nadal. Federer frames their dynamic not as a bitter rivalry but as a deep, competitive bond that matured into mutual gratitude.

High five… that was cool… Can’t wait to maybe hang out more in the future.

He also shares why he told his peers — including Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray — that it made sense for him to retire first, given his age, so they wouldn’t have to watch him fade due to injury.

I had a career without them in the beginning… and they should have a career without me too.

Life after tennis: family first, projects organically

Federer says he’s in a “resting phase” only in the sense that he’s protecting his schedule — prioritizing family trips, weddings, birthdays, and time with friends after years on the road.

Let’s plan all our vacations super early… so nobody can say, ‘Oh, by the way, can you come to this one thing?’

Alongside family, he’s pursuing selective projects: his sunglasses brand (which sold out quickly), a partnership with On Running, a coffee-table book with Assouline, and philanthropy — including exploring golf events for his foundation.

I’m still in the search mode… I think I will know more, let’s say, in a year’s time.

What now?

When Noah asks the signature “What now?” question, Federer’s answer is candid: he’s enjoying the transition, staying present for his kids (boys, 10; girls, 14), and letting the next chapter reveal itself without forcing a role like coach or commentator.

Either you’re a coach, mentor, journalist, or commentator… I just don’t see myself doing that quite yet because I just don’t have the time.

For now, the plan is simple: protect time, stay connected, and let meaningful projects come organically.

This recap is based on Roger Federer’s appearance on the What Now? with Trevor Noah podcast. For the full episode, click on the YouTube link at the top or listen wherever you get your podcasts.