Roger Federer says he remembered Rafael Nadal in Cape Town and said the Match for Africa was one of his ‘happiest memories’. Roger Federer says he remembered playing against Rafael Nadal in Cape Town and said the match for Africa was one of his ‘best memories’
Two years ago, former world No. 1 Federer took on his great rival Nadal in front of almost 52,000 spectators. Federer and Nadal put on a show as the Swiss defeated the Spaniard 6-4 3-6 6-3.
“One of my fondest memories – 2 years ago today, South Africa,” Federer wrote on Instagram, accompanied by a love emoji and the South African flag.
On this day 2 years ago – the Match in Africa between Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal was held in Cape Town with the largest attendance at a tennis match (51,954 fans).
pic.twitter.com/DuWMcL4GQT – Michal Samulski (@MichalSamulski) February 7, 2022
Federer couldn’t hide his joy after the match
“It was such a privilege to be here tonight. Of course we want to try to play tennis as well as possible, that’s what we’re world famous for.
It was an absolute pleasure to share space with Rafa again, but being here in beautiful Cape Town, South Africa for the first time means so much more. It’s really, really special on so many levels,” Federer said on the pitch after the match.
“This is so much more than just tennis. I really hope we can do that again. I hope Rafa can one day make it back to this beautiful country. I am so proud to have roots down here and thank you all for coming.
It’s really, really special.” Nadal lost to Federer in Cape Town but he absolutely enjoyed the atmosphere. “As always, we did our best. The energy was just fantastic. I don’t think we can describe our feelings.
It’s a lifetime experience to play here in front of such a fantastic crowd in such a fantastic stadium. It’s not the first time I’ve played here in South Africa, I’ve played since I was a kid.
But it’s my first time as a professional player,” Nadal said. “I have nothing but blessings to say to Roger, his whole family and his entire team because the organization of this event was just fantastic. It was a great pleasure for me to be a part of it.”
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