Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal share an unbreakable bond that exemplifies how true friendship can withstand the test of time. As Nadal approaches the twilight of his illustrious career, Federer has shown nothing but unwavering support for his longtime rival and friend. Reflecting on Nadal’s potential retirement, Federer expressed his confidence in Nadal’s decision.

The Swiss maestro recently sat down for an interview with Today and was asked about Rafael Nadal’s retirement. He stated, “I actually just spoke to him this last week. He wanted to ask me something, and we had a chat, and, um, I felt a little bit sorry for him. That his summer didn’t go as well as planned because, at the French Open he had a tough draw. Olympics, he had a tough draw as well.”

Further, he added, “He was hoping, I think, to make a medal. Of course, it was Alcaraz in the doubles. I think also to make a medal. But you know, overall he can do whatever he wants….he’s been one of the most iconic tennis players we have ever had in our sport and that’s what I told him. So I just hope he can go out on his terms and the way he wants to, um, but he’s a great guy, great career…”

Earlier this year as well, Federer had hinted that Rafael Nadal might surprise everyone by continuing to play beyond his anticipated retirement date. Although the Spaniard has not officially confirmed when he will retire, he has strongly hinted that this season could be his last on tour. With 22 Grand Slam titles to his name, Nadal stands second in the all-time Grand Slam winners’ list in the men’s category, trailing only Novak Djokovic.

Federer, like many tennis fans, wishes to see Nadal extend his remarkable career a bit longer, adding more unforgettable moments to his storied career. “It’s up to him to decide how he wants to do it. I don’t have any information on that, and I hope that, in fact, he will play much longer than we think. But the question is his body, as he says very honestly,” the 43-year-old said. While Nadal has not announced his retirement yet, he recently admitted that his “objectives for the year are over.”

Rafael Nadal makes big announcement over his 2024 tennis season

Rafael Nadal had a hip injury at the 2023 Australian Open that kept him out of action for over a year. After making his comeback at the Brisbane International this season, he was again forced to miss important events like the Australian Open, Indian Wells, and Miami Open due to an injury sustained during his quarterfinal matchup with Jordan Thompson at Brisbane. Though it was widely assumed that Rafael Nadal would announce his retirement at the end of this year, the 22-time Grand Slam winner has not yet made an official announcement.

After the Paris Olympics, Nadal admitted that he didn’t meet the goals he had set for himself this year. Reflecting on his challenging season, he said, “My objectives for the year are over and I haven’t achieved what I would have liked to. I train every day and I enjoy other things in life.”

Nadal hasn’t played since his last appearance at the Paris Games and has also withdrawn from the ongoing 2024 US Open. Despite his absence from these two events, he has confirmed his participation in the 2024 Laver Cup, signaling that he still has some competitive tennis left in him. Do you think the Spanish maestro can continue playing in the next season too? Let us know in the comments below.