Swiss tennis legend Roger Federer expressed immense happiness about the ability to reach Rafael Nadal at any moment, discuss virtually anything, and potentially steer him through future fatherhood. He spoke at length about the bond that has connected the two stars, reflecting on how their relationship evolved as their families grew. The remarks came during a press conference after a Laver Cup doubles match that marked the end of Federer’s storied career for Switzerland.
“There has been a strong connection, especially over the last decade,” Federer noted. “Whether it was influenced by my own children or just the natural dynamics of our rivalry, I’m not sure. What matters most is the way our relationship stands today. I’m grateful that I can dial Rafa and talk about anything. I think he feels the same about our friendship. It was meaningful that Rafa’s family was present these days, underscoring that this isn’t just about competition but about shared passion. I can sense his care for me as a person.”
“This means a lot. I believe he feels the same when he sees my parents, my children, and my wife. It’s a beautiful thing. I hope the same kind of support comes for his future children. We must do our best in the time we have left together. We enjoy each other’s company and have created many memories, yet we also treasure the moments spent simply being together. Whenever we share an afternoon, it feels like time isn’t enough,” reflected the Swiss star.
Nadal: “I couldn’t miss today”
The Spaniard openly supported Federer and admitted that, despite weeks of personal challenges, he could not stay away. “It’s been thrilling, memorable, and sometimes and emotional and difficult to describe. It felt like a day of many emotions, but ultimately it was special and meaningful for everyone involved. There’s a beginning and an end,” Nadal told Spanish media.
“After a series of tough moments I’ve witnessed recently, Roger’s farewell felt personal and significant to him. I’m glad he could say goodbye in front of so many fans and that the world could witness his moment on the court. He deserves it, unquestionably. He’s an icon and one of the most important figures in the history of sports, and it’s a big moment for him to retire on the court.”
Nadal was visibly moved, bursting into tears on the bench beside Federer. “I’m a pretty sensitive person. Crying isn’t something I shy away from. Crying can be healthy. Part of my life is ending, so it’s hard,” he confessed.
Nadal, who expects his first child in the coming weeks, described the past weeks as exhausting, with little sleep. “Hard weeks, a few hours of sleep, a bit of general stress. Living with more pressure than usual at home has been challenging. Professional demands have also been intense, but everything is fine now. I’m calmer and grateful to be here, which mattered a lot to me.”
“I knew how important this was to him. I’ve maintained a close personal relationship for a long time. Being part of the Players Council means we talk weekly about everything and eventually. I’m not retired, but I understand that when injuries linger, retirement feels distant and frustrating. It’s been a difficult period in some ways, with a slow road to recovery, and it couldn’t be rushed. It was crucial for him to retire on the track, and I’m glad I could be here for that moment.”
The Spaniard, who has not competed since a fourth-round loss at the US Open to Frances Tiafoe, confirmed he would not participate in further matches at the Laver Cup. “I’m not in good shape. I won’t play again. I need to retreat to reflect. In moments of exuberance I’ll go back to my room and consider what comes next.”
Nadal also reflected on whether Federer’s retirement would influence his own future plans. “I’m not at that moment yet. I came close to considering retirement this year. During Roland Garros I thought it could be my last tournament, and Wimbledon and New York brought their own challenges. A string of personal and professional pressures has made things tough. But I’m not there yet and I’m trying to maintain balance in both life and career.”
Still, Nadal left a glimmer of hope that he might meet Federer again on the court once his physical health allows it. “I’m confident we’ll be back on the court together,” he said, speaking about a possible future reunion on the tennis stage. This sentiment echoed the enduring bond between two players who defined an era in men’s tennis, both fans and friends ahead of the sport’s many chapters. (Source: post-match reflections and public statements from fans and media coverage of the Laver Cup event)