Roger Federer wrote an emotional letter on social media to Rafael Nadal, who is retiring from top-level sport this week at the Davis Cup final.
The letter concludes with the words: "All the best, your fan, Roger."
Before Federer strikes an emotional note, he begins with a few facts. The Basel native refers to the 24:16 record in favor of the Spaniard and describes his emergence on the tour: "After the 2004 Australian Open, I was number 1 in the world rankings for the first time. I thought I was on top of the world. And I was - until you came on court in Miami two months later in your red sleeveless shirt, showed off your biceps and beat me convincingly. All the rumors I'd heard about you - about this amazing young player from Mallorca, a generational talent who would probably win a major tournament one day - weren't just hype."
Federer also mentions Nadal's on-court rituals. "Putting your water bottles together like toy soldiers in formation, straightening your hair, adjusting your underwear... All that with the utmost intensity. Secretly, I kind of loved the whole thing. Because it was so unique - it was just like you," enthuses the 43-year-old about the 38-year-old's habits.
Federer becomes increasingly emotional in his open letter. He mentions various duels, describes his feelings at the award ceremonies and praises the Rafa Nadal Academy, where all four of his children have trained. "And then there was London - the Laver Cup 2022, my last match. It meant everything to me that you were there by my side - not as my rival, but as my doubles partner. Sharing the court with you that night and sharing those tears will forever be one of the best moments of my career," Federer emphasized.
The letter ended with the words: "And I want you to know that your old friend is always cheering for you and whatever you do next. That's Rafa! All the best, your fan, Roger."
SDA
