One lucky bidder just secured a piece of tennis history—an actual racquet used by Roger Federer during his victorious 2004 Wimbledon campaign. After an intense 18-day bidding war on TheTennisAuction.com, the coveted item sold for an astonishing $118,206, cementing its status as one of the most valuable pieces of tennis memorabilia ever auctioned.
This wasn’t just any racquet. It was the one Federer wielded when he defended a Grand Slam title for the first time in his career, toppling Andy Roddick in the 2004 Wimbledon final. That win marked his third major crown and the beginning of a reign that would define an era.
A Personal Touch: Signed for Anna Wintour
Adding an extra layer of prestige, Federer had personally inscribed the racquet for none other than fashion icon Anna Wintour and her daughter, Bee. The elegant signature on the neck reads:
“To Anna + Bee, Roger Federer.”
Given Wintour’s well-known friendship with Federer, it’s no surprise this racquet carried a special personal history. But that didn’t stop collectors from driving the price into six figures.
Federer vs. Roddick: A Wimbledon Final for the Ages
The 2004 Wimbledon final was a battle of tennis titans, pitting the top two seeds against each other for the first time at SW19 since the legendary John McEnroe vs. Jimmy Connors showdown in 1982.
Roddick, who had been a rising force in men’s tennis, came in looking to avenge his loss to Federer the previous year. The American started strong, snatching the first set 6-4, but the Swiss Maestro found his rhythm, executing a breathtaking comeback to win in four sets: 4-6, 7-5, 7-6(3), 6-4.
Federer’s precision, court control, and mental fortitude proved too much for Roddick, despite the American generating 14 break points—four of which he converted. The Swiss, always masterful under pressure, secured five breaks and took control of the match in its critical moments.
A Defining Victory in Federer’s Legendary Career
This win was a turning point. Federer had officially arrived as the dominant force in men’s tennis. It was his 24th consecutive victory on grass, and his performance in the final showcased the fluid brilliance that would define his career.
- Winners & Efficiency: Federer outplayed Roddick with more winners and fewer unforced errors.
- Clutch Play: He denied six break points in the fourth set before breaking Roddick at love to seal the match.
- Finishing Touch: Federer’s ace at 5-4 in the final set put the exclamation point on his second Wimbledon triumph.
A Priceless Legacy, A Six-Figure Souvenir
While Federer’s legacy in tennis is untouchable, his memorabilia continues to appreciate in value. With this $118,206 racquet, a piece of his journey now belongs to an elite collector.
For fans, it serves as a reminder of the golden era of men’s tennis—when Federer, at just 22 years old, began his reign at Wimbledon, a reign that would span nearly two decades.
