Roger Federer recently shared heartfelt reflections on Rafael Nadal’s illustrious career as the Spaniard prepares to retire. Known as the “King of Clay,” Nadal is set to make his final appearance in the Davis Cup against the Netherlands. Hardcore tennis fans are already grappling with the emotional void his departure will leave in the sport. Federer, Nadal’s longtime friend and rival, has openly expressed his admiration and appreciation for their shared journey in tennis.
On November 19, Federer took to Instagram to post an emotional letter dedicated to Nadal. “As you get ready to graduate from tennis, I’ve got a few things to share before I maybe get emotional,” Federer began. Praising Nadal’s dominance at Roland Garros, Federer acknowledged the unparalleled challenge of competing against him on clay. “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.” Nadal’s career achievements include 14 French Open titles among his 22 Grand Slam victories, making his legacy on clay unmatched.
Federer also highlighted Nadal’s contribution to the sport, saying he “made the whole tennis world proud.” On a lighter note, he shared an amusing anecdote about sending his children to Nadal’s academy. While he admired the institution, Federer humorously admitted he worried his children might come back as left-handed players, just like Nadal.
View this post on Instagram
Reflecting on his own retirement in 2022, Federer revealed how special it was to have Nadal by his side during his final match at the Laver Cup. That moment, where they played as doubles partners instead of rivals, holds a special place in Federer’s heart. “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,” Federer wrote.
Federer’s letter struck an emotional chord with fans and fellow players alike. Carlos Alcaraz responded with a crying emoji in the comments, while Nadal’s sister, Maribel, shared the post on her Instagram story, accompanied by a crying emoji and a heart, expressing gratitude toward Federer.
This letter is not the first time Federer has openly admired Nadal. In a 2018 interview, Federer acknowledged the impact Nadal had on his career. He described how Nadal’s relentless competitiveness pushed him to improve, ultimately making him a better player. “Rafa has had such a big impact on my sporting career. When I came onto the stage, I was trying to find my way to world number one. Later on, he finally arrived in a big way because he was one of the best teenagers of all time, besides Bjorn Borg,” Federer said. He added that Nadal was always destined to be his “legitimate rival” and expressed gratitude for the way their rivalry elevated his game. “Today I can also call him a friend,” Federer concluded.
Federer had previously penned a message for Nadal during his recovery from a hip injury in 2023. At the time, Federer expressed hope that Nadal would make a strong comeback, which he has now done in preparation for his final appearance in the Davis Cup.
Nadal’s Davis Cup record is nothing short of extraordinary, with a 29-1 singles record and five title victories for Spain. Fans eagerly await his final match, wondering if he will lead Spain to yet another title, with their last victory occurring in 2019. As Nadal bids farewell to professional tennis, his legacy will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on the sport.