Federer to Nadal before retiring: “I liked your superstitions because they are unique”

A few hours before the start of the Davis Cup final, which will be Rafa Nadal’s last tournament as a professional, former Swiss tennis player Roger Federer, one of Nadal’s main rivals and at the same time a great friend, published an extensive letter. on his social networks, in which he wanted to show his support for the Spanish tennis player and in which he highlighted many moments that marked both his career and that of Nadal himself. Federer published the full text of the letter on his Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) accounts.

“Let’s go, Rafa Nadal!

Since you are ready to retire from tennis, I have something to share before I start to worry.

Let’s start with the obvious: you beat me badly. More than I could gain from you. You challenged me in a way that no one else could. On clay, it felt like I walked into your backyard and you made me work harder than I ever thought possible to stay strong. You made me rethink my game to the point where you made me change my racquet frame size in hopes of gaining an advantage.

I’m not a superstitious person, but you took this to the next level. The whole process, all these rituals. Arrange bottles like soldiers in formation, fix your hair, straighten your underwear… And all this with maximum intensity. Secretly, I have to say that I loved it all because it was unique, just like you.

Do you know Rafa? You made me enjoy tennis even more.

Okay, not at first. It was the first time I was ranked number one since the 2004 Australian Open. I thought I was on top of the world. And it was about two months later when you walked out onto the court in Miami wearing a tank top, showing off your biceps, and you beat me outright. All the rumors I heard about you (about this incredible young tennis player from Mallorca, a generational talent who might one day win a Grand Slam) were not just hype.

We were together at the beginning of our journey and we will complete it together. 20 years later, Rafa, I must say: what an incredible career you have had! Including 14 Roland Garros. This is a historical event! You have made Spain and tennis proud.

I keep thinking about our shared memories. Together we promote sports. Play this match on a half grass, half clay court. The attendance record for a tennis match was broken in front of 50,000 fans in Cape Town, South Africa. We always laugh loudly, tire each other out on the court, and sometimes almost support each other during the trophy presentation.

I am still very grateful that you invited me to Mallorca to open the Rafal Nadal Academy in 2016. Actually, I invited myself because I knew you were too righteous to insist that I go there, but I didn’t want to miss it. You have always been an example for children all over the world, and Mirka and I are proud that our children study in your academies. They had a great time and learned a lot, just like other young tennis players. And I always worry that my kids come home to play tennis as if they are left-handed.

And we arrive in London for the 2022 Laver Cup. My last game. It was very important to me that you were next to me, not as my opponent, but as my doubles partner. Sharing the court with you that night and sharing those tears will forever be one of the most special moments of my career.

Rafa, I know you’re focused on the last part of your epic career. We’ll talk when you’re done. Now I want to congratulate your family and your team, who have played an important role in your success. And I want you to know that, like an old friend, I will always support you and encourage you in whatever you do next.

Rafa, this!

Best forever. Your fan.

“Roger.”

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