Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer played their first game in Miami in 2004 when the 17-year-old stunned the world’s number 1 in straight sets. From the following season, Nadal Federer joined the tour as the second strongest member, played for notable titles against his greatest rivals and challenged him to improve his game even further.
Federer and Nadal have played in nine major finals and numerous other title fights around the world. Both players are currently on 20 major trophies, two more than Novak Djokovic. About Federer, Nadal said they are not close friends who would tell each other that they were injured before their clash on the pitch.
Even so, they have built a strong relationship over the years, often calling each other and talking about tennis and other things. Nadal and Federer are skipping Miami and taking more time to prepare for the sand swing.
The two biggest rivals set the world record in Cape Town in February 2020 and played in front of more than 50,000 spectators.
Rafael Nadal spoke about his relationship with Roger Federer
After that, Federer had to skip the entire season due to a knee injury, undergo two operations in February and May and return to the pitch in Doha a few weeks ago.
On the flip side, Nadal claimed he had reached the elusive crown of 20th major at Roland Garros last year, which set Federer’s record, hoping to overtake the Swiss in Paris in June, work hard on sand and rely on his Prepare favorite tournaments.
“We’re very good companions and over time our relationship has improved. We’re not close friends; I wouldn’t tell him my knee hurts before I play against him! We can call each other anytime and about anything speak.
I just spoke to him today! I want to be competitive and well prepared and go to Monte Carlo and all of the clay court swing which is the most important time of the year for me. I work very hard for it.
It’s sad to play without the extra energy from family and friends. It’s strange, especially for us older players who used to travel with family and lots of other people. Let’s hope that the situation will return to normal thanks to vaccines, “said Rafael Nadal.
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