Before Their Bromance Began, Rafael Nadal Accused Fake “Gentleman” Roger Federer of Turning a Blind Eye to Pressing ATP Issue in 2012

The Spaniard, Rafael Nadal, is considered one of the most humble players in the sport. He has rarely been involved in any outbursts or verbal sparring on the tennis court. He is also known for always respecting his opponents throughout his tennis journey.

However, Nadal was once involved in a disagreement with his close friend and rival, Roger Federer. The Spaniard surprised the tennis fans and media when he clashed with the Swiss tennis legend.

Rafael Nadal was once involved in verbal sparring with Roger Federer

In 2012, Nadal raised his voice against the congested tennis schedule that was affecting players’ fitness. But his friend, Federer refused to join him in the protest of the player’s grievances. As a result, Nadal ridiculed Federer’s approach to the congested tennis schedule for his fellow tennis athletes. The Spaniard accused him by stating, “For him it’s good to say nothing. Everything positive. ‘It’s all well and good for me, I look like a gentleman,’ and the rest can burn themselves.”

Rafael Nadal added, “Everyone is entitled to have their own opinions.” He further complained about his busy schedule and how it can affect his fitness levels. He also mentioned his fellow tennis athletes, Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic, who were facing similar issues with their playing schedules.

Nadal further stated, “I love the game and there are a lot of things I’m grateful for. The game has allowed me to lead a fantastic lifestyle. But to finish your career with pain all over your body, is that a positive?No. Maybe [Federer] has got a super body and he’ll finish his career like a rose.”

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Nadal also stated that Federer is not affected by the busy schedules as the Swiss player is injury prone. He added “Neither myself, nor Murray, nor Djokovic are going to finish our careers like a rose. Tennis is an important part of my life, but it’s a tough sport. We’re not like him [Federer] where it’s effortless to play. For all of us, it’s a battle.”

Though there was a rare disagreement between the two tennis legends, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer, the dispute didn’t last long and they remained close friends throughout their glorious tennis journey.

Nadal played together with Roger Federer

The two tennis greats, Nadal and Federer, teamed up to represent team Europe for the Laver Cup. They were joined by the Serbian tennis legend, Novak Djokovic, and the British tennis player, Andy Murray. The tournament featured a double event which was the farewell match for the 20 grand slam title winner, Federer.

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The Spaniard, Nadal, and the Swiss, Federer played the doubles event together. However, they were defeated by the American duo, Jack Sock, and Frances Tiafoe. The 20 grand slam title winner, Federer, received a huge stand ovation from the crowd and the other tennis players.