Firm Favorite for Laver Cup – Tennis Now
By Richard Pagliaro | Wednesday, September 17, 2025
Photo credit: Laver Cup Facebook
Roger Federer knows what it takes to hoist the Laver Cup championship.
Assessing this weekend’s Laver Cup San Francisco showdown, Federer favors Team Europe to successfully defend the Laver Cup primarily because of the lofty level of world No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz.
Speaking to media ahead of this weekend’s Laver Cup competition, Federer favors Team Europe, which edged Team World, 13-11, on the strength of Alcaraz’s comeback win in Berlin last September.
“I think Europe is probably the favorite – mainly because of Alcaraz and Zverev on the team,” Federer said.
“Especially Alcaraz, he’s playing tennis on another level, honestly. I always enjoy watching Carlos. He’s a real treat to watch.
“I do think that Europe probably overall has a stronger team, and I think the doubles are not as crucial this time around because I think both teams are about equally strong in the doubles. It’s going to come down to the singles.”
This will be Alcaraz’s first event since he dethroned Jannik Sinner in the US Open final earlier this month to capture his sixth Grand Slam crown and regain the world No. 1 ranking for the first time since September, 2023.
Former No. 1 Federer said the fact Alcaraz arrived in San Francisco early and has been practicing is a strong sign for a loaded Team Europe, which will be led by captain Yannik Noah for the first time.
“I think with Carlos Alcaraz on the team and him already arriving in San Francisco and ready to go, I give Europe the edge here in San Francisco to take it home again,” Federer told the media.
