Roger Federer is one of the best people I have ever met, says Tommy Haas

Tommy Haas was scheduled to compete with Federer in the latter's first professional match of the career in 1998. However, the 39-year old did not compete in the match and it was Lucas Arnold who beat the current World No. 3. Haas expressed disdain in not being able to be the one to defeat the young Federer who has now become a legend in tennis.

"I am privileged to be his friend. Roger is one of the most important sportsmen in the history, and one of the best people I ever met as well. He is a role model for any younger player. He treats everyone in the same way.

"He always told me that it was his most painful loss against me. But in Sydney, he met his future wife Mirka. Our families get along well each other. My children play with Roger's. And when we are all around the table, we rarely speak about tennis," Haas said.

Federer made a triumphant return to the court winning the Australian Open to kick start his year followed by victories at Indian Wells, Miami Open, and bagging his historic eighth title at Wimbledon. Haas who recently took on the post of the tournament director at Indian Wells spoke about Federer's victory at the event.

"He always told me that it was his most painful loss against me. But in Sydney he met his future wife Mirka. Our families get along well each other. My children play with Roger's. And when we are all around the table, we rarely speak about tennis," said Haas.