Credit Suisse to bank on Federer in decade-long deal

16 November 2009 | Posted in Sponsorship, Tennis | By

Roger Federer, already the most successful player in the history of tennis at the age of 28, has landed a ten-year sponsorship deal with Credit Suisse that is expected to take him to the end of his career.

The Swiss bank will make a 'significant contribution' to the Roger Federer Foundation, the tennis player's charity that provides aid and promotes education and sport to disadvantaged children in Africa.

Credit Suisse declined to disclose the figure on the sponsorship, but it is thought to be in line with Federer’s other endorsements, and thus likely to be worth some US$2 million per year.

Federer, the world's top tennis player with 15 Grand Slam titles and 61 singles tournaments to his name, said of the sponsorship: "I am excited about this opportunity to act as a global ambassador for Credit Suisse. They have been an important and trusted banking partner with me for a long time and I admire their passion for excellence. I also value Credit Suisse's substantial support for my foundation. I look forward to our ongoing partnership and helping make a contribution to the bank's continued success."

Brady Dougan, chief executive officer of Credit Suisse Group, added: “Credit Suisse is delighted and proud to be associating ourselves closely with Roger Federer – one of the greatest tennis players of all time, known and admired worldwide. Our decision to enter into a long-term partnership is driven by the fact that Roger represents the values that we embrace as a bank. He has a passion for excellence and is a great player. He has achieved this through a combination of hard work and determination.

"He brings all of his talent to bear in his play and raises the level of his game to meet the challenge in even the most trying of circumstances. At the same time he sets an example for responsible conduct both on and off the court. We also particularly share his passion for giving back to the community through his sponsoring of educational initiatives and look forward to supporting his charitable foundation.”

Federer recently signed an endorsement deal with Lindt, which sees the Swiss chocolate maker join the tennis star's extensive list of existing sponsors, including Nike, Rolex, Gillette, and Mercedes Benz.

Credit Suisse pulled out of its Formula One sponsorship earlier this year, citing the desire to focus on more regional events.