I did something that very few tennis fans do, I left the match early.

I had good intentions, though.

I ran down the stairs from my assigned seat and halfway around the arena to the players' lounge where I came to a halt in front of barricades and security guards.

They said it would be a while before he arrived;

but I was prepared to wait as long as necessary to just catch a glimpse of him up close.

Two hours had passed and I was still gripping a tennis ball, a marker and my phone, ready for the second when the door opened.

Security guards began shuffling and closing gates. Then the huge double doors opened and there he was. The best person to ever play the game, Roger Federer.

He came to me first and I was in such shock from actually seeing my favorite athlete standing two feet away from me.

I held out the ball and marker, which he willingly accepted and signed.

Somehow, I was able to mutter the words “Can I get a picture with you?”

To my astonishment, he happily obliged and then I took the “selfie” that would remain my profile picture for months, be posted on my fridge, and be cherished forever.

He smiled and moved onto the next adoring fan.

I did not even bother to wait for the other players because my goal had been reached.

I backed out of the crowd with tears of happiness streaming down my face.