Watch: Throwback to 2019 Wimbledon when Roger Federer heaped praise on rival Rafael Nadal

published

Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal share a great camaraderie despite being arch-rivals for more than two decades

Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal are two of the most loved sporting stars across the globe and the camaraderie they share is one to behold! A footage has gone viral on social media where Federer can be seen heaping praise on his friend and rival Rafael Nadal. Federer gave a candid interview and spoke about his friendship with Nadal – his admiration and love for the Spaniard was pretty evident from his statements.

Federer was all praise for Nadal stating “he has a heart of gold”. When asked which player he dreads playing the most and who is his favourite opponent to play against – the answer was the same: Rafael Nadal. Fans absolutely love this sweet relationship between their sporting heroes and no wonder, the video clip is trending on Twitter.

Incidentally, Federer and Nadal faced each other in the Semi-finals of the competition. It was Federer who prevailed in four sets but he lost to the eventual champion Novak Djokovic in the final.

Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal share immense mutual admiration and respect

Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal have been the best of friends since early days and they continue to share a wholesome camaraderie. Nadal fondly addresses Roger as ‘Rogelio’ and used to text him when the Swiss maestro won tournaments during his playing career. Both the legends continue to be the best of friends and Federer chose to play the last match of his professional career, partnering Nadal in the doubles tie of the 2022 Laver Cup.

Fcszow8akAAk0Rg
Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer (Twitter)

Nadal and Federer dominated the Tennis circuit for more than a decade as arch-rivals but that hasn’t affected their personal friendship one bit.

Federer retired from the sport in December last year and Nadal is in the twilight of his career currently – we certainly miss the on-field rivalry between the two icons of the sport. When Federer bid goodbye to the sport in the Laver Cup 2022, Nadal was visibly in tears especially when Federer was delivering the farewell speech on the court. This raw emotion certainly speaks volumes about the mutual respect and admiration that the two players share.

More Tennis news

Follow our dedicated Tennis page for instant Tennis news and updates