Tennis legend Roger Federer has paid tribute to Rafael Nadal as the Spanish star prepares to retire after competing in the Davis Cup.
In a heartfelt message on social media, Federer described Nadal’s career as “incredible,” highlighting his record-breaking 14 French Open titles.
“Rafa, I have to say: What an incredible run you’ve had. Including 14 French Opens — historic!” Federer wrote. “You made Spain proud… you made the whole tennis world proud.”
Federer and Nadal’s rivalry is one of the greatest in tennis history. The two faced off 40 times, with Nadal holding a 24-16 advantage overall and 6-3 in Grand Slam finals. Reflecting on their battles, Federer said, “I keep thinking about the memories we’ve shared… always cracking each other up. Wearing each other out on the court and then, sometimes, almost literally having to hold each other up during trophy ceremonies.”
Nadal, who has won 22 Grand Slam titles, will retire after representing Spain in the Davis Cup. His decision comes after struggling with injuries in recent years. Despite this, Nadal has emphasized that his focus remains on helping his team win.
“I am not here for retiring. I’m here to try to help the team,” Nadal explained. “It’s of course going to be my last week on the professional tour, but at the end, we are here in a teams competition. The emotions are going to be for the end.”
Federer, who retired in 2022, also recalled their special partnership during his farewell doubles match at the Laver Cup. “It meant everything to me that you were there by my side — not as my rival but as my doubles partner. 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 journey began in 2004 when he defeated Federer as a 17-year-old at the Miami Open. Reflecting on that moment, Federer said, “I thought I was on top of the world. And I was — until two months later, when you walked on the court in Miami in your red sleeveless shirt, showing off those biceps, and you beat me convincingly.”
Federer concluded by praising Nadal’s impact on the game and his ability to push opponents to new heights. “You made me reimagine my game—even going so far as to change the size of my racquet head, hoping for any edge,” he wrote.
Nadal’s final matches are set to be an emotional farewell to one of the sport’s greatest players.
