“I’m not perfect…” : Lewis Hamilton Compares Himself With Roger Federer

The 36-year-old is currently chasing a eight world championship as he looks to further establish himself as Britain’s most successful ever racing driver. But Hamilton, who has been caught up in controversies away from the track during different stages of his career, says he is not perfect.

Instead, the Mercedes driver believes the ideal role models are the likes of Roger Federer and boxing great Muhammad Ali.

“By far! Look at Muhammad Ali or to make an example, Roger Federer. These athletes are much closer to perfection than me. The word ‘perfect’ makes me think to a musician that finds the right tone at every concert.”

“And then perfection is a concept that constantly changes. It’s evolving. You evolve when you get older, when you gain wisdom. And when our strength decreases, I suppose that our perception towards perfection changes again.”

“It will be about being able to play sport.”

Federer has racked up 20 Grand Slams during his illustrious career and is widely regarded as one of the greatest ever to play the sport.

Similarly, Ali is considered one of the best to ever step into the ring, and was known as an inspiring figure without the gloves on, donating millions of his earnings to charity.

Hamilton is no stranger to speaking highly of Federer in the past, describing him earlier this year as a source of inspiration.

“I always come back to talking about Roger Federer, but he’s a great example,” Hamilton said. “He has managed to become the world No 1 again. He is a happy family man, he is very wealthy, but still, he has this tremendous inner drive to reach new heights.”

“Maybe that’s really a sign of greatness.”