If you've ever wanted to see two very well-oiled marketing machines that double as humans enjoying each other's company, see here the photo that Maria Sharapova joined Roger Federer for today in Sao Paulo, Brazil. (Also at right, courtesy of www.facebook.com/Sharapova)
Of course it was part of a dual Gillette sponsor event. Always on point, these two. And just the latest sign that, in this off-season, Federer remains relentless: He pals around with Olympic multi-medalist skier Lindsay Vonn, he shoots classy new commercials, and he garners kudos left and right that are entirely deserved.
In news that will shock no one, Andy Roddick this week announced that he's not graceful like Federer, never has been and never will be. (Side note: What's even more interesting among his comments there is how Roddick admits that Serena Williams was really on to something when she began playing a pared-down scheduled of pro events years ago: “I often say to her, ‘Maybe the years when you kind of weren’t there, maybe they’re helping you now.’ I was just nose to the grindstone. Maybe she was some kind of genius when everyone was criticizing her for it.”)
But back to Federer, of whom Vonn said this: “Of all the athletes I've ever met, Roger is the kindest and most genuine. He really cares about people and what he's done with his foundation and his humanitarian efforts has been incredible. He's hard-working and extremely humble, but the thing I respect most about him is he's the same person every day whether he wins or loses." One has to think that Vonn would pull a Kanye if the occasion ever presented itself: "It's all good, Novak, and I'ma let you finish—but Federer is one of the best humans of <em>all</em><em>time</em>."
Finally, here's a look at Federer's new commercial for Moet & Chandon, the champagne brand perfectly paired with his own elegance: