At Dartmouth College, the retired tennis legend Roger Federer delivered a commencement speech that has captured the attention of many. Despite dropping out of school at 16 to pursue a professional tennis career, Federer stood before over 2,000 graduates to share some valuable insights on winning and losing.
During his speech, Federer humbly admitted that throughout his 25-year career, he only won 54 percent of the points he played. This surprising revelation has resonated with audiences far beyond the walls of Dartmouth, sparking discussions and even inspiring numerous TikTok videos set to motivational music.
Beyond the statistics, Federer’s speech was filled with humor and wisdom. He joked about his limited experience on college campuses and even shared anecdotes about his time in Hanover, N.H., including hitting tennis balls with his kids at the Boss Tennis Center and indulging in chocolate chip cookies from Foco.
However, the heart of Federer’s message lies in the life lessons he imparted through his tennis career. By reframing his dominance on the court, Federer encouraged the graduates to look beyond mere victories and losses. His words have struck a chord with many, prompting reflection on the importance of resilience, perseverance, and humility in the face of success and failure.
As we navigate our own journeys, whether in academics, careers, or personal pursuits, Federer’s words serve as a reminder that true success is not solely measured by wins and losses but by the lessons we learn along the way. In a world obsessed with outcomes, his speech offers a refreshing perspective on the true meaning of achievement and the value of the journey itself.