Roger Federer faces criticism in Switzerland over military service exemption

Despite his global status as a tennis icon, Roger Federer faces ongoing criticism from segments of the Swiss public regarding his exemption from mandatory military service.

In 2003, Federer was declared unfit for military service due to reported back problems, despite having played professional tennis at the highest level for five years. Rather than completing civilian service, he reached an agreement with the state to pay a fee equivalent to 3% of his taxable income.

Critics argue that this arrangement constituted preferential treatment, suggesting his physical capabilities were inconsistent with a claim of being unfit for service. Some Swiss citizens have expressed resentment over the decision, viewing it as a violation of the principle that laws should apply equally to all citizens.