Roger Federer reveals he may make a comeback to tennis, only if Rafael Nadal “asks him”

Roger Federer expresses his wish to accompany Rafael Nadal during his final match.

Roger Federer reveals he may make a comeback to tennis, only if Rafael Nadal “asks him”

Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal (Via Imago)

It has been almost two years since Roger Federer retired from professional tennis with a spectacular yet somber farewell during the 2022 Laver Cup. That event showed the bond Federer had with Rafael Nadal, his greatest rival, as they held hands and wept after the former’s last-ever official match.

Soon it may be time for Rafael Nadal to play the last match of his career and Roger Federer expresses his wish to be there when it happens. Ahead of his own retirement, Federer said Nadal was the first person outside his family that he informed about. Nadal was committed to accompanying his biggest rival on the court in one last doubles match despite being injured. He then revealed that Federer wanted him to be there and it was a request he couldn’t refuse. 

YouTube video

Now, the script has flipped and Federer awaits a call from Nadal, asking him to be present if he decides to end his glittered career that has spanned almost 25 years.

FS Video
I don't think we'll play doubles together at the Laver Cup, but if he asks me, I'll definitely be there.
Federer to Gazetta

Federer confirmed that he wouldn’t miss it even if he is not able to accompany his rival on the court.

Roger Federer reveals that he thought Rafa Nadal may retire before him

Federer is almost five years older than Nadal and was already an established player before Nadal broke onto the scene. However, Federer’s seemingly injury-free career saw him play tournaments more consistently while Nadal often took breaks due to multiple setbacks with his fitness and physical condition. 

Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal at 2022 Laver Cup
Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal at 2022 Laver Cup (via Imago)

This may have been due to his intense style of play that demanded a lot from his body. Despite this, Nadal managed several miraculous comebacks, most recently in 2022, and continues to play at a very high level even now, after a 16-month break. 

This seemed impossible during the initial stages of his career and many had speculated that he would be forced to retire early. Federer revealed that he thought so too and was pleasantly surprised when his rival continued to push boundaries.

Yeah, I mean, I was worried that he might quit before me. There were signs that made us feel that Rafa was not well and that he was not going to last as long as he has. I didn't think I could play beyond 37 or 38, and the same for him, but then you find a place again where you start to feel better.
Roger Federer to El Pais

Nevertheless, Nadal has had an unbelievable career. He is now set to partner with Carlos Alcaraz at the upcoming Olympics.

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