“Characteristics of Messi Are Not Those of Federer” – Tennis Legend Rafael Nadal Once Explained Why There Can Be No Comparison Made Between Roger Federer and Lionel Messi

As sports fans, we have witnessed many great rivalries between top athletes. When it comes to soccer, nothing can emulate Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo’s rivalry. The same goes for Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal in tennis.

However, fans have gone ahead with their comparisons. They often call Roger Federer the Lionel Messi of tennis and Rafael Nadal the Cristiano Ronaldo. Back in 2018, the statements of Roger Federer compared his rivalry with Nadal to that of Ronaldo and Messi, making the fans draw such comparisons.

Rafael Nadal had his say on Lionel Messi and Roger Federer’s comparison

22 times Grand Slam winner Rafael Nadal thinks it is incorrect to compare Messi and Federer, suggesting they play separate sports. “There is no comparison possible,” he told the Spanish publication Marca.

Nadal further added, “They are two completely different sports and the characteristics of Messi are not those of Federer nor those of Cristiano are mine. Each one is as it is.”

Fans think Messi is similar to Federer because both are graceful and effortless in their respective sports. Similarly, they think Nadal, because of his physique and the strong desire to win, is similar to the Portuguese who has made a name for himself with his passion and hard work. 

The quartet was at its absolute best last decade dominating soccer and tennis. The way soccer duo has dominated Balon d’Or awards and broke several records on their way to glory. Similarly, Nadal and Federer (with Djokovic) have dominated Grand Slam. 

Roger Federer once compared his rivalry with Nadal to that of Ronaldo-Messi

Federer, speaking ahead of the 2018 Wimbledon, said he and Nadal are the Messi and Ronaldo of tennis. Although, the Swiss tennis legend was quick to point out that the sports are different and he is in more control of the game than Messi and Ronaldo, who play a team sport.

The Wimbledon in 2018 started when FIFA World Cup 2018 was going on. Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo’s fate were sealed with an early exit from the tournament. However, Federer wished he won’t face the same fate and go to the later stages of the tournament.

Read More: “F**king Straight Up Wizardry” – Joe Rogan Once Recognized ‘Little Dude’ Lionel Messi’s Greatness Even Before His FIFA WC Glory

Recently, Federer announced his retirement in an emotional message, whereas Messi, Ronaldo, and Nadal are still playing. Messi won his first-ever World Cup this month. The quartet has entertained us a lot, and their rivalries have been at their peak. 

Watch this story: Tiger Woods Reveals What Makes Him Starstruck About Lionel Messi

Do you think Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal are the Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo of tennis? Also, share your opinions on what Nadal said.