Nadal Is 'Like Tiger In Cage When He's On Court' Says Rival Federer

Monday, 16 October 2023 at 21:30

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bySebastian Dahlman

Roger Federer spoke about Rafael Nadal and their rivalry during a recent appearance on the ATP Radio Podcast.

Federer and Nadal had a fierce rivalry during their playing days, but as they got older, it mellowed into a really nice friendship, which was evident during Federer's retirement ceremony. Nadal probably cried more than Federer did, which was a beautiful moment showcasing the relationship they have on a personal level.

The matches and records and accolades are all nice but the connection they have as people is amazing. It's evident in many ways, particularly when they speak about each other which is always quite respectful and oddly with a dose of pride as well.

I don’t know Rafa [Nadal] enough off-site, but he’s like a tiger in the cage whenever I see him at the courts and I feel I’m very relaxed on and off-site. He has incredible intensity, he’s always warming up, he’s always going around and there’s always much stuff to do for him and he’s preparing and you can feel like there’s always a match on his mind.

— Federer on Nadal<br>

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They are both similar and different in ways. Both are utterly brutal on the court and very competitive, but in Federer's mind, he's more relaxed, while Nadal's brings intensity to everything he does, particularly around the tennis courts.

I don’t know if we’re so opposite you know. But yeah, I guess, to some extent, I’m may be more calm more relaxed whereas he goes, especially through the tennis days in a more intense way when he’s on-site.

I’m sure that when it’s all over, every player finds a way to unwind because if you don’t, you can’t exist on the tour for as long as it lasts. It’s a tough tour and you have got to find ways to relax.