“I hoped this day will never come,” Roger Federer writes heartfelt farewell as Rafael Nadal announces retirement from tennis
Roger Federer bid farewell to arch-rival Rafael Nadal after the Spaniard announced his retirement from the sport.
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Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal (Via Imago)
Roger Federer sent his heartfelt farewell after his greatest rival Rafael Nadal announced his retirement from tennis. The Swiss Maestro, who retired in 2022, congratulated him on his incredible career during which they were frequently at loggerheads for the big titles.
Nadal arrived on the ATP Tour as a special talent two decades ago. He went on to become Federer’s biggest challenger, especially in Grand Slams. Federer played Nadal 40 times over the years, with the later leading 24-16 in their head-to-head record.
Nadal also leads in their head-to-head Grand Slam record 6-3, including the 2008 Wimbledon final which is regarded as one of the greatest matches in the history of the sport. Nadal announced his retirement on Thursday (October 10) via a video on social media. Federer reacted to Nadal’s announcement on Instagram, lauding the Spaniard for his iconic career.
What a career, Rafa. I always hoped this day would never come. Thank you for the unforgettable memories and all your incredible achievements in the game we love. It’s been an absolute honour!
Roger Federer said
Nadal added that he will retire after the season-ending Davis Cup Finals in Malaga. The 38-year-old has helped the Spanish team win the Cup five times, he will be hoping to win another in November.
Rafael Nadal happy to retire from tennis with “peace of mind” after battling with injuries
Rafael Nadal admitted that he bids goodbye to tennis with peace of mind. The Spaniard is regarded as the greatest clay court player of all time, having won 63 titles on the surface, including 14 French Open titles.
Nadal notched an incredible 81 consecutive wins on clay at one stage and compiled a 112-4 win-loss record at the Roland Garros. In his retirement announcement, he said that he gave it his best in his career and is going to hang up his racket with peace of mind.
Really, everything I have experienced has been a dream come true. I leave with the absolute peace of mind of having given my best, of having made an effort in every way. I can only end by saying a thousand thanks to all and see you soon.
Rafael Nadal said
Nadal last competed at the Paris Olympics. He succumbed to a disappointing second-round exit in the singles and exited in the quarterfinals in the doubles. He has since withdrawn from every tournament, including the US Open.
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Victor Okechukwu
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