Roger Federer gives his verdict on Rafael Nadal’s clay season as he wishes him the best for upcoming Paris Olympics

Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal’s friendship has been regarded as one of the most iconic in tennis. With Federer retired, and Nadal in his final career phase, they still remain in contact with each other. Federer recently wished the Spaniard the best as he is set to feature in his final Olympics in Paris, despite a difficult season.

Nadal returned to the Tour after being out for more than eleven months due to a hip injury. The 38-year-old played in one tournament for three months, as he continued to deal with his health problems. He fully got his season going during the clay season with the Barcelona Open. He reached the second round of the tournament after a rusty display but followed it up with a round-of-16 finish in Madrid.

The 22-time Grand Slam champion was hoping to continue in the same fashion at the Italian Open but lost to Hubert Hurkacz in the second round. He then competed at the French Open, a competition he has won 14 times. However, his stay was shortlived as he lost to eventual runner-up Alexander Zverev in the first round.

Nadal withdrew from Wimbledon, stating he was focused on playing at the Paris Olympics. During a recent interview with the German Media, Federer admitted that the Spaniard is going through a difficult phase but wishes him well in the Olympics.

It's a difficult phase for him, but I found that he actually did well the whole clay court season - knowing that he hadn't played for a long time before. I was really a little afraid that it wouldn't be so good. Due to the fact that he lost early to Alexander Zverev in Roland Garros, he can now scare himself a little before the Olympic Games. Of course, I wish him only the best.

Roger Federer said

Nadal will partner with Carlos Alcaraz in the men’s doubles at the Paris Olympics. Nadal has featured at the Games thrice, winning one singles gold and one doubles gold, while Alcaraz will compete for the first time in his career.

Roger Federer explains significance of the viral picture of him and Rafael Nadal at 2022 Laver Cup

Despite having one of the most intense rivalries in tennis, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal have great respect for each other. They met 40 times on the court, with Federer winning 16 and Nadal 24, but their relationship made them become close friends.

During Federer’s final career match at the 2022 Laver Cup, the duo shared an emotional moment, as they held each other hands in tears. In a recent interview, the 42-year-old revealed that he has hung the framed iconic picture in his home.

I have it at home, framed, in a space where I have several images of my career. I don't want photos everywhere, that's why I have them in a specific area.

Roger Federer told El Pais

Although this picture resonates with the others, Federer believes that this one is extra special and the one image speaks volumes about the journey they have had together from rivals to best friends.

In case you missed it:

• “He still had a few technical errors,” Roger Federer explains why he did not rate Novak Djokovic as high as Rafael Nadal in Serbian’s initial days
• “I was always looking for the next peak,” Serena Williams admits she never took time to settle after each victory

Stay Updated!

Join our newsletter to receive exclusive updates and curated insights directly to your inbox.

Subscribe NOW