Roger Federer Praises Rafael Nadal Ahead of His Retirement

MALAGA, Spain: In a heartfelt message shared on social media, tennis legend Roger Federer expressed his admiration for his long-time rival Rafael Nadal, stating that Nadal made him enjoy the sport of tennis “even more.” This touching tribute comes just before the Davis Cup Final 8, which marks Nadal’s final event before his retirement from professional tennis.

Federer, who is now 43 years old, reflected on their intense rivalry that spanned 40 matches over 15 years. He began his message with the enthusiastic word “Vamos,” a term often used by Nadal, and shared his thoughts on their competitive journey. Federer acknowledged that Nadal had a significant impact on his career, saying, “Let’s start with the obvious: you beat me — a lot. More than I managed to beat you.” This statement highlights the competitive nature of their relationship, where Nadal led their head-to-head series 26-14, including a notable 10-4 record in Grand Slam tournaments.

Federer reminisced about the challenges he faced when playing against Nadal, particularly on clay courts, which he described as “stepping into your backyard.” He credited Nadal for pushing him to improve his game, even going as far as changing the size of his racquet head in search of an advantage. This level of dedication showcases the respect and admiration Federer has for Nadal’s skills and achievements.

Throughout their careers, Federer and Nadal, along with Novak Djokovic, formed the Big Three of men’s tennis, dominating the sport for over a decade. Nadal has won an impressive 22 major titles, while Federer has secured 20. In his message, Federer praised Nadal’s remarkable accomplishments, including his record of 14 French Open titles, stating, “You made Spain proud ... you made the whole tennis world proud.”

The emotional bond between the two rivals was evident when they played together at the Laver Cup in September 2022, marking Federer’s final match. The two shared tears after the match, a moment that Federer described as “one of the most special moments of my career.” This sentiment reflects the deep respect and friendship that has developed between them over the years, transcending their competitive rivalry.

As Nadal prepares for his last matches, Federer expressed his unwavering support, saying, “I want you to know that your old friend is always cheering for you.” This statement not only emphasizes their friendship but also serves as a reminder of the camaraderie that can exist even among fierce competitors.

The relationship between Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal is a testament to the spirit of sportsmanship and mutual respect in tennis. Their rivalry has not only entertained fans worldwide but has also inspired countless young athletes to pursue their dreams. As Nadal embarks on the next chapter of his life, the legacy of their rivalry will undoubtedly continue to resonate in the world of sports, reminding us all of the joy and passion that tennis brings.