Fortunate to have played with Big Four: Andy Roddick

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Bengaluru, July 23: American star Andy Roddick said during his induction speech at the International Tennis Hall of Fame in Newport that he feels fortunate, not unlucky, to have played at the same time as all-time greats Andy Murray, Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.

"I can't believe the level of tennis that I got to see in my career. The shots hit, the records that were broken, and the records that continue to be broken. Thanks to Murray, Novak, Roger and Rafa for playing the game at a higher level than it's ever been played," Roddick said.

The American said he had the privilege of competing against some of the greatest players who have gripped a racquet. "The 'Big Four' guys really pissed me off most of the time but I'm absolutely proud to have my life and career associated with such quality individuals," Roddick said.

"I got to guard Jordan, I went the distance with Ali, I pitched to Babe Ruth. I feel like I know what it must have been like to watch Picasso. I saw it all."

He and the foursome also remain friendly. Federer was the first person to send Roddick a congratulatory text on Saturday. "He's just a great human," Roddick said. Sporting his new Hall of Fame blue blazer, Roddick, as he was throughout his career, was self-deprecating, witty and funny during his 27-minute speech.

The big-hitter who thrived on quick surfaces joked about his clay-court skills, remembering how he felt destined after watching the 1989 Roland Garros final between Michael Chang and Ivan Lendl, the first match Roddick saw. "That's when I knew I was going to win Roland Garros," he said to a stadium full of laughter. "I actually wrote, 'Pause for laughter'."

He also mocked his overall level while taking time to individually thank all of his coaches, including Brad Gilbert and Larry Stefanki, who both attended. "I've had a lot of coaches, that's what happens when you're not very talented," said Roddick, who won 32 tour-level titles, including the 2003 US Open and five ATP World Tour Masters 1000 crowns.

But the model for consistency on the tour - Roddick finished in the year-end Top 10 nine consecutive years - was also serious and immensely appreciative in front of a supportive crowd. He fought back tears when talking about those who couldn't be with him and about what the prestigious Hall of Fame honour means to him, his team, and his family and friends.

He fell short of some of his goals, but Roddick retired with no regrets; he had tried everything. "I'm not the best of all-time. I'm not going to win Wimbledon. I'm not the best of my generation. I'm not the most well-behaved. I'm not the most polished," Roddick said.

"I'm also never going to take this honour for granted. I'm never going to forget those who paved the way for us... I may not be a lot of things, but from this day forward, I'll never be anything less than a Hall of Famer. I thank you from the deepest parts of my heart."

OneIndia News