"He's happy, enjoying life" - Nadal on Federer in retirement

| by Balasz Virag

Rafael Nadal revealed that Roger Federer is very much enjoying retirement, as Roger Federer told him during their frequent talks.

Federer and Nadal chat frequently, and they have developed a close friendships over time. The bond they share was highlighted perfectly at the Laver Cup where Nadal was very emotional watching his good friend retire from the sport they both love.

"He is happy, enjoying life, delighted. We talk regularly," said Nadal in an interview with AS. "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."

"Everyone wants to see her play" - Mouratoglou on Serena Williams' comeback
"Everyone wants to see her play" - Mouratoglou on Serena Williams' comeback

He also talked the previously mentioned Laver Cup where all the spotlight was on Federer: "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."

As a professional athlete, Nadal knows what it's like to be in the position Federer was for much of his career. The retirement ceremony was hard and emotional and it was a beautiful moment to him:

"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."

WATCH: Iga Swiatek eavesdrops Zverev and Rybakina
WATCH: Iga Swiatek eavesdrops Zverev and Rybakina

Read the full article

Just in

Look at more articles