Roger Federer he said goodbye to Rafael Nadal with an emotional letter in which he expressed that his friend and opponent made him enjoy tennis “even more” during a rivalry that spanned 40 matches over 15 years.
In the message spread on social networks on Tuesday, hours before the start of the final phase of the Davis CupNadal’s last tournament before retiring, Federer He began his message with the word “Let’s go” and said: “As you prepare to graduate from tennis, I have a few things to share before maybe getting excited.”
“Let’s start with the obvious: you beat me — a lot. More than I managed to win from you. “You challenged me in ways no one else could,” Federer said. “On clay, it felt like I was walking into your backyard, and you made me work harder than I ever thought I could just to hold my own.”
Read also PHOTOS: One of the greats of tennis is leaving! Rafael Nadal announces the end of his career
Rafael Nadal received a life-size gold racket after an exhibition tournament. PHOTO: AFP
“You made me reimagine my game — even going so far as to change the size of my racket head, waiting for any advantage,” he added.
Federer, now 43, had established himself at No. 1 in the rankings when Nadal, now 38, burst in. The Swiss star began his career with a 7-0 record in finals Grand Slam before suffering his first defeat in that instance against Nadal in the final of the 2006 French Openthe first of his three consecutive finals in Paris — all with the same result.
Nadal He also defeated Federer in the final of Wimbledon 2008, preventing the attempt to win a sixth consecutive championship at the All England Club.
Read also Rafael Nadal’s retirement triggers resale prices for the Davis Cup
Rafael Nadal. Photo: EFE
In total, Nadal dominated 26-14 in direct history, including 10-4 in tournaments. Grand Slam and 6-3 in Grand Slam finals.
Still, Federer told Nadal in his post, referring to him by the nickname Rafa: “You made me enjoy the game even more.”
Together they formed the “Big Three” (The Big Three) of men’s tennis along with Novak Djokovic, who is still active at 37 years old and is the owner of the men’s record with his 24 titles in major events. Nadal is the second on the list with 22, followed by Federer with 20.
“What an incredible career you’ve had!” Federer posted. “Including 14 Roland Garros — historic! “You made Spain proud… you made the entire tennis world proud.”
When Federer left the sport playing a doubles match in the Laver Cup In September 2022, his partner was Nadal. The two sat next to each other afterwards, crying.
“It meant everything to me that you were there by my side — not as my opponent but as my doubles partner,” Federer wrote on Tuesday. “Sharing the court with you that night, and sharing those tears, will forever be one of the most special moments of my career.”
Nadal’s Spanish team faced the Netherlands in the Davis Cup quarterfinals on Tuesday. Neither Nadal nor the captain of Spain David Ferrer They said Monday whether Nadal will play singles or doubles, both — or neither.
“Rafa, I know you are focused on the last leg of your epic career. “We’ll talk when it’s over,” Federer wrote. “I want you to know that your old friend is always cheering you on, and will cheer with equal enthusiasm for everything you do next.”
In what ways did the competitive dynamic between Nadal and Federer shape the perception of what it means to be a champion in men’s tennis?
1. Thematic section: The legendary rivalry between Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer.
Interviewer: Can you describe your initial impressions when you first faced Rafael Nadal on the tennis court? How did it feel to compete against someone who not only became your greatest rival but also pushed you to reimagine your own game and helped elevate your performance to new heights?
Guest 1: Well, I have to say that when I first played against Rafa, he was just a young, unknown player from Spain, and I didn’t know much about him. He had a very unique style of play, especially on clay, which is not my favorite surface. However, what quickly became apparent was his incredible determination, focus, and raw talent. As our rivalry grew, it became clear that he had the potential to be one of the greatest players of all time. He challenged me in ways that no one else had before, making me work harder to improve my game and strategize differently. I think our rivalry has been one of the most significant in tennis history, not only because of the number of times we faced each other or the number of titles we won, but also because it inspired both of us to become better players and raised the overall level of the game.
Guest 2: It’s impressive how both Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer have managed to maintain their friendship and mutual respect despite their intense rivalry. Can you talk about the dynamics of your relationship off the court? Have there been any memorable moments where you were able to support each other or connect on a more personal level?
Guest 1: Absolutely. Although we were fierce competitors on the court, away from it, we developed a genuine friendship. We have shared many great moments on tour, and I’ve always admired Rafa’s dedication and work ethic. One of the most memorable moments for me was when we played doubles together in the Laver Cup earlier this year. It was emotional and special for both of us. We have shared meals together, traveled together, and supported each other through injuries and tough times. I believe that our friendship has made our rivalry more intense but also more meaningful.
2. Thematic section: The impact of the ‘Big Three’ on men’s tennis.
Inter
