Roger Federer says Rafael Nadal “made the whole tennis world proud” during his “epic career” as he paid tribute to his former rival ahead of his retirement.
Nadal, a 22-time Grand Slam winner, will end his illustrious career at the age of 38 after representing Spain at the Davis Cup final in Malaga this week.
Federer, who retired in 2022 with 20 Grand Slams, won 16 matches and lost 24 in 40 meetings with Nadal – including an epic final at Wimbledon in 2008.
“As you prepare to graduate from tennis, I need to share a few things before I perhaps get emotional,” Federer, 43, wrote on Instagram.
“Let’s start with the obvious: You beat me – clearly. More than I managed to beat you. You challenged me in ways no one else could.”
“On sand, it felt like I was walking into your backyard, and you made me work harder than I ever imagined just to hold my own.”
American star player Serena Williams posted on X: “Why am I so exhausted by Rafael Nadal’s retirement? I’m not good at saying goodbye.”
The 23-time Grand Slam singles champion also posted a video on Instagram wearing one of Nadal's branded headbands and a T-shirt featuring the Spaniard.
“Congratulations on a career most people wouldn’t dare dream of,” she said.
“I feel so lucky that I got to play when you played and were great.”
“Your legacy will never die. It has been an honor to see your career from the beginning to now. Long live Rafa!”
