Federer, as tennis’ biggest name, is not going to be short of celebrity friends.
The 36-year-old has appeared in adverts alongside the likes of Thierry Henry and Tiger Woods over the years, and is reportedly close to The Hangover actor Bradley Cooper.
And Moto GP driver Rossi is another A-lister ally, with the Italian now opening up on his relationship with Roger Federer while praising the tennis star.
“He has always been one of my favourite sportsmen, even more now that we are in it together,” he said.
“We text, so much respect for him.”
Federer continues to set the tennis world alight despite recently losing his world No 1 spot to Rafael Nadal.
The veteran won the Australian Open in January but his form has tailed off recently, losing at Indian Wells and the Miami Open.
But that has not stopped Rossi from praising him, with the Moto GP driver impressed by his ability to adapt to any situation.
“His immense talent. He managed to stay competitive at 36 of age because he is… better,” he said.
“In a best of five sets match, a super (Novak) Djokovic may beat him.
“But his class, his way to play, makes Federer probably struggle more.
“To re-invent yourself is the key.
“Maybe for me, or for one who races a motorcycle, it’s, even more, the key.”
