One of the most memorable wins for Roger Federer in his career – that was not a Grand Slam tournament final win – came at the 2011 French Open when Federer defeated Novak Djokovic in the semifinals, ending Djokovic’s incredible 43-match win streak.
Now, Prestige Memorabilia, the global leader in tennis memorabilia, is auctioning off the racket Federer used for this incredible win. The tournament marked the last French Open final of Federer’s career (where he lost to Rafael Nadal in the final) and the racket is expected to fetch upwards of $50,000. The auction is open for bidding starting 14 May and will close on 2 June.
Federer’s win over Djokovic occurred on June 3, 2011, as documented in the book “On This Day In Roger Federer History” by Randy Walker, for sale and download here https://a.co/d/2TEQpkE
The book excerpt on the match can be found here:
June 3, 2011: Roger Federer ends the 43-match win streak of Novak Djokovic in the semifinals of the French Open with a 7-6(5), 6-3, 3-6, 7-6(5) victory. Djokovic enters the match undefeated on the year and not having lost a match since Federer beat him on November 27 of the previous year in the semifinals of the ATP World Tour Finals in London. “I wasn’t here to spoil the party,” says the No. 3-seeded Federer. “Almost feels, somewhat, like I’ve won the tournament, which is not the case. Silverware is still out there to be won, and I’m looking forward to the match with Rafa.” Says Djokovic of the loss, “A loss cannot feel good, that’s for sure, but, look, I know what to do. I handle myself better off the court, on the court. I’ll just accept it as another loss.” Two days later, Federer loses in the final at Roland Garros, falling to Rafael Nadal 7-5, 7-6(3), 5-7, 6-1.
The auction represents a rare opportunity for tennis enthusiasts and collectors worldwide to own an authenticated piece of sporting history from one of the most iconic moments of Federer’s incredible career. The racket is acquired from the Roger Federer Foundation, and coveted Resolution Photomatch certification accompanies the racket. Resolution was able to forensically prove that Federer used the racket in the final. Further emphasizing the rarity of the racket, it is the first ever Federer racket with a photomatch graphic to come to auction. Federer’s racket was custom made for him, and he has also autographed it.
The 2011 French Open showcased Federer’s finest clay court play. In a much-anticipated semifinal, Federer halted Djokovic’s historic 43-match win streak in what is considered the best clay court match of his career. The four-set victory was punctuated by a Federer ace, leading to the iconic finger wag celebration. In the final, Federer faced the Nadal in their 25th career duel. Federer pushed Nadal to the limit in a four-set battle, showcasing a series of brilliant shots from the very racket that is up for auction.
Other incredible items from Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Carlos Alcaraz, and Serena Williams will also be available in the auction.
The auction commences May 14th, 2024. Please find the auction online at thetennisauction.com.
