The legendary rivalry between tennis legends Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal dates back two decades and remains one of the greatest rivalries in the history of the sport. Federer has hung up his racket in 2022 and with Nadal announcing today that he too is stepping away from the court for good, the Swiss superstar is delighted to welcome his Spanish counterpart into the world of retirement.
Federer shared his thoughts on Nadal's retirement announcement in a comment on Nadal's Instagram post. “What a career, Rafa!” he said to himself Tennis Letter. “I always hoped this day would never come. Thank you for the unforgettable memories and incredible accomplishments in the game we love. It has been such an honor.”
Roger Federer was transferred to Rafa Nadal after announcing his retirement from tennis.
We always support each other until the end. 🥹 pic.twitter.com/qQNkCler2k
— Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) 10 October 2024
Federer is not the only Nadal rival to celebrate the Spanish star's retirement. Novak Djokovic, with whom Nadal has faced dozens of times over the years, similarly expressed his gratitude.
“Rafa, one post is not enough to express the respect I have for you and what you have done for our sport,” the Serbian wrote on Instagram. “You have inspired millions of children to take up tennis and I think that is probably the greatest achievement anyone could wish for. Your perseverance, dedication and fighting spirit will be taught for decades to come. Your legacy will live on forever.
“Only you know what you have to endure to become an icon of tennis and sport in general,” he added. “Thank you for pushing me to my limit many times in the competition that has impressed me the most as a player. Your passion to represent Spain has always been remarkable.”
Djokovic finished the match by promising to watch his former rival finish his career on a high note next month. “I wish you the best possible farewell in Malaga. [the] Spain's Davis Cup team. “I will be there in person to pay tribute to your stellar career,” he said.
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Other stars of the tennis world, including Andy Roddick, Carlos Alcaraz and Jannick Sinner, similarly thanked Nadal for his hard work on the court and shared personal stories of being inspired by him over the years.
Grande Rafa. @RafaelNadal Thanks for the memories today………. Thanks buddy
— andyroddick (@andyroddick) 10 October 2024
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21-year-old Spanish star Carlos Alcaraz, who plays doubles with his idol Nadal at the Olympics this year, marveled at his own journey in the context of Nadal's career.
“From the child who watched you on TV and dreamed of becoming a tennis player, to the child who has the tremendous gift of representing Spain in the Olympic Games at Roland Garros! Thank you so much for being an example at every level, Your legacy is unrepeatable!” He wrote to X: “I enjoyed you so much and will miss you so much Rafa when you leave after the Davis Cup!”
Nadal will be on the court for the last time in the Davis Cup final between November 19-24.