The tributes to the Swiss legend also piled in from other players and luminaries on Thursday.

RAFAEL NADAL, 22-TIMES GRAND SLAM WINNER

"I wish this day would have never come. It's a sad day for me personally and for sports around the world. It's been a pleasure but also an honour and privilege to share all these years with you, living so many amazing moments on and off the court."

BILLIE JEAN KING, FORMER WOMEN'S NO.1

"Roger Federer is a champion's champion. He has the most complete game of his generation and captured the hearts of sports fans around the world with an amazing quickness on the court and a powerful tennis mind.

"He has had a historic career with memories that will live on and on. Congratulations Roger Federer. We wish you the very best as your journey continues."

CARLOS ALCARAZ, NEW MEN'S NO.1

"Roger has been one of my idols and a source of inspiration! Thank you for everything you have done for our sport! I still want to play with you! Wish you all the luck in the world for what comes next!"

IGA SWIATEK, WOMEN'S NO.1

"I just want to thank you for everything you've done and everything you are for our sport. It's been a privilege to witness your career. I wish you all the best."

ANDREA GAUDENZI, ATP CHAIRMAN

"Few athletes have transcended their field in such a manner. Roger made us all feel proud and fortunate to be part of the same sport. He redefined greatness on the court."

JUAN MARTIN DEL POTRO, FORMER US OPEN CHAMPION

"I LOVE YOU, Roger. Thank you for everything you've done in tennis and with myself. Tennis world will never be the same without you."

ANDY RODDICK, WHO LOST THE 2009 WIMBLEDON FINAL TO FEDERER

"Cheers Roger. Thanks for the shared memories my friend. It was an honor to share time/experiences on the most hallowed grounds in our sport. Don't be a stranger.

"Also, seems like a good time to start training for Wimby (Obviously kidding)."

SWISS PRESIDENT IGNAZIO CASSIS

"What a career, what a champion. Thank you Roger Federer for all the matches, victories, defeats and emotions we were able to experience. The Swiss couldn't be prouder!"

CHRIS EVERT, 18-TIMES MAJOR WINNER

"He was the epitome of a champion; class, grace, humility, beloved by everyone and he elegantly mastered the sport like no other. Good luck to you, Roger Federer, don't go too far!"

PETRA KVITOVA, TWICE WIMBLEDON CHAMPION

"Roger - you have always been such a huge inspiration to me. Your elegance, your grace, your beautiful game.

"I have always held you in the highest regard and want to congratulate you for an amazing career. Tennis won't be the same without you! Thank you."

DENIS SHAPOVALOV

"A role model for me and so many others!! Thanks for everything Roger. It's been a privilege to share the court with you!!"

DAVID FERRER, FORMER WORLD NO.3

"The saddest day in tennis. Thanks Mr Federer."

GARY LINEKER, FORMER FOOTBALLER AND TV PRESENTER

"It's been one of the great pleasures in life to watch you play. You've brought so much joy to so many."

SACHIN TENDULKAR, INDIAN CRICKET GREAT

"What a career, Roger Federer. We fell in love with your brand of tennis. Slowly, your tennis became a habit. And habits never retire, they become a part of us. Thank you for all the wonderful memories."

Australian Associated Press