By Douglas J. Lanzo
Copyright 2022

First published in Academy of the Heart and Mind (November 3, 2022)

Artist, legend, Swiss master of the game,
unmatched in Wimbledon’s gentlemen annals,
destined for The International Tennis Hall of Fame,
inspiring hope through philanthropic channels;

His charitable foundation and causes throughout the years,
combating poverty and disease and building schools in Africa; 
have exhibited strength of character without rival in his peers,
displaying compassionate resolve from Australia to America;

One small illustration of the tender heart of this star,
is when Roger wrote a young cancer amputee from afar,
inspiring Marc by promising that once back on his feet,
fitted with a new prosthetic leg, they would meet,
upon tennis courts that Marc had used to play,
with a passion for tennis each and every day;

In unforgettable moments making this boy’s dream come true,
Roger stunned him at the US Open, playing a round or two,
humbly explaining to those who marveled at the event,
that it was a great privilege and time well spent.