Rivals to friends. That happens across sports. But, in tennis, an individual sport, it seems highly unlikely. Yet, you’ll find it happened quite a bit. The biggest examples in the past were Bjorn Borg and John McEnroe in men’s tennis and Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova in women’s tennis. Despite facing each other for the biggest titles and losing, there was no animosity towards each other but admiration. This wasn’t the case for Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.
They had a rocky start. While Federer dominated everyone on the tour, Nadal got the better of him time and again. Nadal had asked Federer to play doubles together in 2006, but the Swiss declined. Cut to today, Federer just penned a 500-word note for his rival turned friend. Their rivalry has blossomed beautifully into a friendship that no one including them expected.
By November 21, Nadal will retire from tennis. Spain’s Davis Cup tie against Netherlands will be last tournament before he hangs up his racket. It’s still unsure whether will play a singles match due to his uncertain fitness but he’ll definitely be in action in Malaga, Spain.
Federer’s touching tribute to Nadal
Before the day comes, Federer decided that he’ll pay tribute to Nadal. “We were both at the start of our journey and it’s one we ended up taking together. Twenty years later, Rafa, I have to say: What an incredible run you’ve had. Including 14 French Opens—historic! You made Spain proud… you made the whole tennis world proud. I keep thinking about the memories we’ve shared. Promoting the sport together,” the 20-time Grand Slam champion wrote.
“Rafa, I know you’re focused on the last stretch of your epic career. We will talk when it’s done. For now, I just want to congratulate your family and team, who all played a massive role in your success. And I want you to know that your old friend is always cheering for you, and will be cheering just as loud for everything you do next,” Federer wrote welcoming Nadal into retirement.
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