Renowned tennis superstar Roger Federer recently expressed his sympathy for his longtime rival and friend, Rafael Nadal, whose 2024 season has been plagued by injuries. Federer, who retired from the sport in 2022 due to his own injury struggles, shared his feelings towards Nadal’s uncertain future in the game.

During a visit to the United States, Federer opened up about Nadal’s challenging circumstances, stating, “I hope [Nadal] can go out on his terms and the way he wants to.” This compassionate sentiment showcases the bond between the two tennis greats, who have shared numerous battles on the court over the years.

In a candid interview with USA Today, Federer revealed, “I actually just spoke to him [Nadal] this last week.” He acknowledged Nadal’s tough luck at prestigious events like the French Open and the Olympics, where the Spaniard faced challenging opponents. Nadal has been struggling with various injuries and fitness issues, leading to limited appearances on the court this year.

Despite their competitive history, Federer expressed his understanding of Nadal’s situation, having experienced a similar decline towards the end of his career. The Swiss maestro’s final match was a poignant doubles encounter with Nadal at the Laver Cup in 2022, marking the end of an era for both players.

As Federer graced the grounds of the US Open, a tournament he had triumphed in five consecutive times, fans reminisced about his past glories. The atmosphere was electric as Federer watched the quarterfinal clash between Aryna Sabalenka and Qinwen Zheng, with the Belarusian emerging victorious in dominant fashion.

The legacy of Federer and Nadal’s rivalry, along with Novak Djokovic, has defined an era in men’s tennis, captivating audiences worldwide. Despite their individual battles with injuries and setbacks, these icons have left an indelible mark on the sport, inspiring a new generation of players to strive for greatness.