WATCH: Inside footage reveals Rafael Nadal was consoled by Roger Federer after the swiss legend’s retirement

Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal's rivalry turned friendship is one of the key themes of the recently released documentary of the Swiss.

WATCH: Inside footage reveals Rafael Nadal was consoled by Roger Federer after the swiss legend’s retirement

Rafael Nadal and Roger Fererer (Via Imago)

Roger Federer’s latest documentary “Federer: Twelve Final Days” continues to leave the world in tears as it reminded the world of the Swiss great’s legacy and effect on tennis. This documentary chronicles the last 12 days of Federer’s tennis career and provides insights into all his decisions and the reactions of his family and friends at the end of his career. 

However, one important part of the documentary was his relationship with Rafael Nadal. From the time he touched down in London back in 2022, almost everything was emotional for the two rivals since then. One moment that was highlighted in the film was Federer consoling Nadal after the epic retirement speech at the Laver Cup. 

YouTube video

The whole stadium was in tears, including the big four, but they continued to tear up even in the locker room when it was just them present in the room. Nadal just sat on the bench crying, when Federer went up and comforted him. 

FS Video

It was just another emotional scene for the fans, who had not seen the locker room content before. The whole documentary was emotional for Federer, who really expressed it towards the end while thanking his wife and Nadal.

Roger Federer revealed he did not want Rafael Nadal to be his rival at the start

In Roger Federer’s recent documentary, “Federer: Twelve Final Days”, the Swiss pro dedicated a whole part to his greatest rival-turned-friend Rafael Nadal. The Swiss, being five years older than his rivals, was already at the top of the ranking when Nadal started to climb. 

Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal
Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal (Via Imago)

In the documentary, Federer lucidly explained that he knew Nadal would win many Grand Slam titles ever since his presence was felt in the main draw, but he did not want to be a rival of the Spaniard. The 20-time singles Grand Slam winner wanted to be alone at the top and did not want anyone to challenge him for the spot. 

I think the relationship kicked off in a very friendly manner. And then comes obviously the time when the rivalry starts kicking in. I lost my first match against him and in the first instance, it was, like, "I don't want to have this guy here." I like being at the top alone.
Roger Federer said in his documentary

However, the rivalry was the best thing that happened to the sport. Although Nadal won their first meeting, both of the players fought hard against each other, producing mind-blowing matches every single time. Soon, they would end the rivalry and become closer than friends. 

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