As Rafael Nadal prepares for the final match of his career, retired Tennis star Roger Federer penned down a lengthy and heartwarming post for one of his long-standing rivals. Taking to his official account on X, Federer congratulated Nadal on an illustrious career and recalled how the Spainard challenged him more ways than one on the field.
Having been struggling from a glut of injuries in the last few years, the 38-year-old decided to retire from professional Tennis in October. However, the Spainard, who has won a record 14 French Open titles, will have the opportunity to finish his career in Malaga, Spain, which will play as hosts for the Davis Cup.
Taking to X, Federer wrote that Nadal managed to beat him more times than he ever could and helped improved his game by leaps and bounds.
"Vamos, @RafaelNadal. As you get ready to graduate from tennis, I’ve got a few things to share before I maybe get emotional. Let’s start with the obvious: you beat me—a lot. More than I managed to beat you. You challenged me in ways no one else could. On clay, it felt like I was stepping into your backyard, and you made me work harder than I ever thought I could just to hold my ground. You made me reimagine my game—even going so far as to change the size of my racquet head, hoping for any edge."
"I just want to congratulate your family and team, who all played a massive role in your success" - Roger Federer
Federer also underlined that he will continue to cheer his 'fan' wherever he ends up after finishing his playing career.
"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. Rafa that! Best always, your fan, Roger."
