Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer have reigned supreme on the tennis courts for years, and their legendary status is well-earned. But while their fierce rivalry and undeniable talent have defined an era in the sport, it’s their humility and grounded nature that has truly won the hearts of fans worldwide. Recently, a devoted tennis fan took to the comments section of an Instagram video, sharing a heartwarming story that perfectly captures why Nadal and Federer are beloved not just as athletes, but as true ambassadors of the sport.

In the latest episode of the Nothing Major Podcast, John Isner and Jack Sock took turns to narrate the humble nature of Rafael Nadal. Speaking in the interaction, Isner highlighted how Nadal indulges in activities that not many other players of his stature often do and called him the “man of the people.”

“You see these videos of him getting in economy class and riding. That’s Rafa; that’s who he is,” Isner shared. But what captured the attention of the community was the comment section, in which a tennis fan claimed to have witnessed a remarkable instance involving the tennis greats. 

Taking to the comment section, a user wrote, “Long time Cincy fan here. I’ve gone every year for decades. I’m Fed’s age. One night in Cincinnati, probably 10 years ago or so, Rafa and Federer both separately lost the quarterfinals.” It was in 2011, when both Nadal and Federer witnessed setbacks at the Cincinnati Masters’ quarterfinal, and lost against Mardy Fish and Tomas Berdych, respectively. Continuing further, the fan highlighted the down-to-earth attitude of the player. 

“It was a Friday night. They both decided to hit the town in Cincy and go out to the bars. Here you are, in Cincinnati, with Federer and Nadal having drinks next to you. Absolutely wild.” While there has been no confirmation of the claim, it quickly gained the attention of the tennis community. Even Isner could not help but reply to the comment and wrote, “Wow!” Interestingly, this is not the first time when this trait of Nadal and Federer has come to light. 

In an interview in March this year, US Open player relations director Eric Buterac highlighted the pleasant attitude of Nadal. “Rafa will often do things like shake the hands of all of the folks working at the practice desk on the way out. Little things like that go so far with staff,” Butorac expressed. Similarly, the Swiss Maestro has also impressed his fans with his gestures. 

Federer once proved that his promises mean worth. The 20-time Grand Slam champion made a promise to a young aspiring boy, who desired to play against him. In 2022, after his 41st birthday, the tennis great fulfilled it and was seen hitting the courts with the budding player. “One of the great benefits of this unbelievable sport are moments like these. Zizou, all the best and keep working hard,” Federer wrote as he shared a clip of the instance on his Instagram account. And it is probably for this similar trait that these two players have depicted immense admiration for each other.

When Roger Federer shared a heartfelt post for Rafael Nadal

Tennis is witnessing the end of an era. After Roger Federer hung up his racquets in 2022, Nadal too is walking on that path and will be bidding adieu to the sport after the Davis Cup this year. After his announcement, the tennis community expressed immense admiration for the Spaniard and the one to lead the string of tributes was none other than Roger Federer. 

Commenting on Nadal’s video statement on Instagram, Federer shared a heartfelt message, as he wrote, “What a career, Rafa! I always hoped this day would never come. Thank you for the unforgettable memories and all your incredible achievements in the game we love. It’s been an absolute honor.” Interestingly, even Nadal has reciprocated similar sentiments for the Swiss legend. 

The Spaniard engaged in an interaction with DAZN and opened up about his friendship with Federer and Djokovic. “Of course, with Roger, it has been special but with Novak too, I have a good relationship,” Nadal shared. “I think that’s possible because at the end, we understand that it’s only a game. In life, we have many more important things outside of tennis. So at the end, tennis is only a game, relationships go beyond that.”

As Rafael Nadal now gears up to hang up his racquets, it will be interesting to see if Federer remains present in person to cheer him on during the Davis Cup final 8, this year.