Roger Federer has posted an emotional tribute to Rafael Nadal, thanking him for ‘unforgettable memories’ after the Spaniard announced his retirement.
Nadal said on Thursday that he will officially call time on his career following the Davis Cup Finals in Malaga, with his last match potentially on November 19.
He retires two years after playing doubles with Federer at the Laver Cup in London, in what was the Swiss icon’s final tournament before his own retirement.
Nadal and Federer were once fierce rivals – with the duo facing off 40 times across the ATP Tour – 24 of which were finals and nine of which were major finals.
But the pair, collectively known as ‘Fedal’, are now very close friends and have only expressed love, respect and admiration for one another in recent years.
Following news of Nadal hanging up his racket, 20-time major winner Federer posted on social media: ‘What a career, Rafa! I always hoped this day would never come.
‘Thank you for the unforgettable memories and all your incredible achievements in the game we love. It’s been an absolute honour.’
Other tennis stars have also paid tribute to Nadal, including his former foe Nick Kyrgios, who has had run-ins with the Spanish hero in the past.
‘We had our differences but you were one hell of a warrior,’ Australian star Kyrgios posted on X. ‘Best wishes and good luck with whatever comes next.’
American world No.4 Coco Gauff added: ‘You are amazing! It’s been so incredible to witness your greatness and work ethic and be able to learn from it. Wishing you all the best in your next chapter.’
Nadal finishes his career with an incredible haul of 22 Grand Slam titles, 14 of which came at the French Open, where he enjoyed historic success on the clay.
He also won the US Open four times, Wimbledon twice and two Australian Open titles as well as helping Spain clinch four Davis Cup trophies.
‘I think it’s the appropriate time to put an end to a career that has been long and much more successful than I could ever have imagined,’ Nadal said. ‘I’m very excited that my last tournament will be the final of the Davis Cup and representing my country.’
