Ace As Rafael Nadal prepares to play in what may be his last professional match on Tuesday, Swiss tennis great Roger Federer left a touching message for his longtime opponent. Despite their intense competition on the court, he and Nadal remained close friends off it, and their chemistry is evident on a regular basis.

When Federer and Nadal played together in the 2022 Laver Cup, their doubles match served as Federer’s retirement match. In addition to a record 14 at the French Open, the latter has won four US Open championships and two each at Wimbledon and the Australian Open, completing a career Grand Slam.

Nadal ranked first in the rankings for five years (2008, 2010, 2013, 2017, and 2019) and second for eight years (2005–07, 2009, 2011, 2018, 2020, and 2022).

Before I get too emotional, I have a few things to share with you as you prepare to graduate from tennis. Let’s begin with the obvious: you much outperformed me. I beat you more than I was able to. No one else could challenge me the way you did. Federer stated on Instagram, “It felt like I was entering your backyard on clay, and you made me work harder than I ever imagined I could just to hold my ground.”

“It wasn’t simply hype that I had been hearing about you, this incredible young player from Mallorca, a generational talent who is certain to win a major someday. Federer stated, “We were both at the beginning of our trip, which we ultimately took together.

“For the time being, I simply want to thank your staff and family, who were instrumental in your achievement. Federer said, “I also want you to know that your old friend is always rooting for you and will be loudly supporting you in everything you do going forward.”

At the 2020 French Open, Nadal tied Federer with 20 major victories after defeating longtime adversary Novak Djokovic in straight sets. For the fourth time, he won at Roland Garros without losing a set.