Toni Nadal has lauded Roger Federer after he received a standing ovation at his recent return to the Wimbledon Championships.
Roger Federer last played at Wimbledon in 2021, losing to Hubert Hurkacz. Many assumed that wouldn't be his last one on the ATP Tour, but it was, and in ways, fitting. The final set being a bagel was not fitting, but that being his last ever competitive event was fitting.
His retirement came at the 2022 Laver Cup in London, as that event holds a special meaning to him, being one that came up with it. He returned to London once more recently, being honoured at the event for everything he gave to tennis and also what he achieved at the event itself.
It was a huge standing ovation, with some match-watching from the Royal Box as well. Toni Nadal recently gave his verdict on that moment, lauding Federer while explaining that the applause he got was the loudest we'll hear at this year's Wimbledon.
One of the most notable moments of this Wimbledon, if not the most, was the ovation with which the British public received Roger Federer at his entrance to the Royal Box, most likely greater than any player will receive after any victory this year.
How exciting and how satisfying it must be for the already legendary Swiss tennis player to feel the affection, respect and consideration that is given to him in such a magnificent setting.
It's pretty well known that Federer is beloved in London, but you would need help finding a place on Earth where he isn't beloved in one way or another. Toni Nadal knows it best, as he's witnessed it more than once up close.
Such an overwhelming demonstration can only be the result of two facts that have occurred together in him as they have not occurred in any other tennis player: his sublime and elegant game and his impeccable behavior throughout such a long and brilliant career. If I had been in the stands, he too would have applauded with great pleasure and with no less emotion.
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