Federer hails Roddick after American vows to step away from game

Roger Federer admitted he was saddened by Andy Roddick's retirement, insisting he'll always regard him as a "Wimbledon champion" despite the American's epic failures to lift the All-England Club title.

World No 1 Federer beat Roddick three times in the Wimbledon final - in 2004, 2005 and 2009 - with their last encounter decided 16-14 in the final set.

"He could have gotten that title," said Federer, whose stranglehold over Roddick also extended to the 2006 US Open championship match.