Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal built a lasting friendship while facing off across the ATP Tour.
Between 2004 and 2019, the pair – who hold a collective 42 Grand Slam singles titles – met 40 times on the tour.
Their bond only strengthened over time, with both players speaking highly of each other throughout their careers.
Despite competing at the very top of the sport for over a decade, they always maintained mutual respect rather than rivalry. Their relationship showed that success does not require animosity between rivals.
Federer played his final professional match at the Laver Cup in 2022, partnering with Nadal in doubles. They lost that match in three sets to Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe, but the Swiss legend was still able to walk off into retirement with Nadal by his side.
Rafae

Yard Barker Tennis

W Magazine fashion
Raw Story
Daily Kos
NFL Detroit Lions
AlterNet
CBS News