And how. Twenty years later, Rafael Nadal has 22 Grand Slam titles, for a total of 92 trophies. While waiting, perhaps, for the 93rd at the end of this Davis Cup week. “What an incredible journey you have had,” greets Roger Federer, highlighting his 14 titles at Roland-Garros, his favorite tournament. “You made Spain proud, you made the tennis world proud.”
Beyond their confrontations and their sporting rivalry, the two men shared a multitude of common memories which forged their friendship. “The match played on a half-grass, half-clay court. The all-time attendance record playing in front of more than 50,000 fans in Cape Town, South Africa”, cites Federer as an example, who continues: ” And then there was London, the Laver Cup in 2022. My last match it meant everything to me that you were by my side, not as a rival, but as a doubles partner. Sharing the court with you that evening. and sharing those tears will forever be one of the most special moments of my career.” He concluded: “I just want to congratulate your family and your team, who have all played a major role in your success. And I want you to know that your old friend still encourages you and will encourage you in everything what you will do next.
Spain's quarter-final against the Netherlands can be watched this Tuesday from 5 p.m. In the event of a defeat for La Roja, Rafael Nadal's career would end this Tuesday evening. In the event of victory, the Spanish selection will continue its dream: to offer its legend one last triumph, in front of its public.
