England prop Mako Vunipola has revealed he is a massive fan of tennis superstar Roger Federer – and wants to be a grand-slam specialist like him
THEY ARE unlikely bedfellows but Mako Vunipola wants to be a Grand Slam specialist like golden-oldie Roger Federer.
The England prop is a massive Federer fan for the way the tennis ace continues to win world titles in the twilight years of his career.
Billy Vunipola is determined for success in the twilight of his career just like Roger FedererGetty ImagesRoger Federer beat Rafael Nadal in the final of the Australian Open earlier on this yearGetty Images
The veteran Swiss sensation proved the doubters wrong by clinching the Australian Open in superb style in an epic battle against slugging partner Rafael Nadal at the end of January.
It was his 18th Grand Slam at the grand old age of 35-years-old – and 25-year-old prop Vunipola watched in utter amazement.
The Saracens forward said: “I’m always watching other sports and the mentality of big players.
“Take Roger Federer who won the Australia Open at the start of the year.
“For him to do that at such a late stage of his career, even though he has won everything, he showed he is still the best in the world.
The Australian-born 24-year-old has established himself as a key player in the England squadGetty Images
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Billy Vunipola is a keen admirer of the Swiss legend who continues to perform at the peak of his powers at the age of 35Reuters
“He’s still improving and I think that’s a big thing for us at England – to never be satisfied of where you are and the need to improve. I like to watch a bit of Federer and always remember those games between him and Rafael Nadal at Wimbledon.
“With Federer it’s the way he holds himself and demands respect. People are in awe of him, but he is full of humility too and his attitude is to keep improving even though he is 35-years-old.”
Even though Vunipola senior is 11 years younger than Federer and one of the youngest forwards in the undefeated England pack – he is still the oldest loosehead.
Joe Launchbury celebrates as Billy Vunipola comes off the bench to score yet another try for England against ScotlandReuters
For boss Eddie Jones that it is perfect scenario as the Six Nations winners can pack a punch for years to come with the likes of Joe Marler and Ellis Genge also in the Twickenham troop.
Vunipola added: “We all have different strengths, but we all like to get around the pitch.
“Everyone in rugby has to be a complete player now and you can’t just be good at scrummaging – you have to be able to defend strongly and attack as well.
“Obviously we are still judged on the set-piece and you have to get that right – but you also have to offer a lot more to be in this team too. No one is guaranteed that spot and that is how Eddie likes it and training is always like that too.”
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