Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal still have a tense relationship (Image: Simon Bruty/Anychance/Getty Images)
The once fiery rivalry between legends and Rafael Nadal may have cooled, but that doesn’t mean they’ll be best mates anytime soon. Despite tensions simmering significantly over the years, the newly retired Nadal doesn’t seem to rate Federer as a friend by any means.
Federer, 43, was quick to congratulate Nadal on his retirement following Spain’s Davis Cup defeat to the Netherlands. This is a far cry from their early days as fierce competitors after first facing off at the 2004 Miami Masters.
Federer has displayed moments of warmth toward his long-time opponent in recent times. However, the Swiss legend admitted in August 2023 that their rivalry was completely genuine.
“We started respecting the rivalry,” he said at the time. “We almost miss it, playing each other every weekend. Back in the day we couldn’t stand each other probably for that. He’s a great man. I wish he can come back one more time, but he has shown the tennis world and the fans how good he is.”
Nadal, 38, dominated their head-to-head record record over time and won 24 of their 40 matches against one another. The intensity of their clashes may have mellowed over the years, but Nadal isn’t convinced they’ve crossed into friendship territory.
Speaking on in early 2024, tennis titan Nadal opened up about his complex relationship with Federer, admitting that they are not what one would consider “friends.” Even though their bond has evidently grown over the years.
“I wouldn’t consider him a friend,” Nadal confessed. “But someone familiar, with whom I have a great relationship.”
Nadal and Federer have appeared close at times over the years (Image: Getty Images for Laver Cup)
The mutual respect between the two legends was palpable when Federer honoured Nadal with an emotional tribute during his last competitive appearance. The Swiss maestro reflected on their journey from ambitious youngsters to elite rivals on the ATP circuit, culminating in a poignant moment at the 2022 Laver Cup where both were visibly moved by Federer’s retirement.
Their tears hinted at a deep-seated camaraderie, yet for Nadal, it appears the emotion was more to mourn the end of their on-court competition. And one can bet many fans felt the same.
With now leading the pack on 24 Grand Slam titles, the Serbian ace recently revealed he doesn’t see Nadal nor Federer as “friends.” This again highlights the intense competitive spirit that defines the ‘Big Three’, the likes of which tennis may never see again.