"He's happy, enjoying life" - Nadal on Federer in retirement
ATP
Rafael Nadal got a chance to speak to Roger Federer after the Swiss Maestro's retirement, and he revealed that his good friend has been enjoying life since his last tennis match.
Federer and Nadal were once big rivals, but as they approached the final years of their tennis careers, they became good friends. They became such good friends that the Spaniard actually cried during Federer's retirement at the 2022 Laver Cup in London.
Since then, Nadal has been focusing on his tennis career, while Federer has enjoyed life in retirement. Recently, the 22-time Grand Slam champion spoke to the Spanish publication AS, revealing that the two speak quite often.
"He is happy, enjoying life, delighted. We talk regularly. We have a very good relationship and he is doing things. He was in Tokyo and other places. I have spoken with him regularly and well, the truth is, he only has to fix the knee."
Nadal also talked about Federer's retirement at the Laver Cup. He admitted that he loved experiencing it not only as the Swiss Maestro's rival but also as his fan.
"The moment was his. One of the great icons in the history of sport was leaving. I was very moved because in the end, I experienced it as a rival, as a teammate, and also as a fan."
Nadal knows what it's like to be in Federer's position. He is close to his retirement as well, and he enjoyed the farewell ceremony that his rival had.
"I am a professional athlete, but I am a great sports fan, and I value it very much. If someone like Federer leaves, it's hard not to get excited. Happy for him because at least he retired while playing. It's something that seemed like it couldn't be, but he got it. I think it was a very nice farewell for him."
