"It is a very sad moment, but that is how it is" - Nadal on playing final match with Federer
ATP
Rafael Nadal was very sad about Roger Federer's retirement at the 2022 Laver Cup, but he was also ready to accept it.
Federer bid farewell to tennis with a doubles match in London. He partnered with his longtime rival and good friend Nadal to take on Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe.
It was a special moment for the Swiss Maestro to say goodbye to the sport. He usually stood on the opposite side of the net when playing against Nadal, but this time, the Spaniard was on the same side of the net.
After the match, Nadal sometimes seemed to be even more emotional than Federer, and after the match, the 22-time Grand Slam champion also spoke nicely about his rival.
"We have always had a very easy and positive relationship since the beginning. I don't know, but since the beginning, I think the feelings have been positive. They have even grown in a better way over the years."
"In some way, when you have a rivalry like we have had, we have played exhibitions for our foundations, we have shared important moments in the history of this sport."
"On court and off court, we were together, on the council, for a long time. So, we were able to build this relationship in a very positive way. He has been a very positive example for everyone, and for me personally, without a doubt."
Nadal wished Federer a lot of success in his life after tennis. The Spaniard believes that whatever the Swiss Maestro chooses to do, he will succeed in it.
"It is a very sad moment, but that is how it is. That is life, and the only thing I wish him is the best. The best of the best with every single thing that he will do. He deserves it: healthy, family, success. Everything."
