Roger Federer will team with Rafael Nadal in final pro match at Laver Cup

LONDON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 21: Roger Federer of Team Europe talks to the media during a press conference ahead of the Laver Cup at The O2 Arena on September 21, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images for Laver Cup)
By The Athletic Staff
Sep 21, 2022

Roger Federer will team with his longtime rival Rafael Nadal in his final professional match Friday at the Rod Laver Cup.

The superstar duo will face Americans Frances Tiafoe and Jack Sock, according to Thursday’s draw. On Wednesday, Federer called the prospect of playing with Nadal “quite a unique situation,” citing the respect they have always had for each other.

“It would be great,” he said.

The 41-year-old Swiss star, who announced his retirement from professional tennis last week, said he is at peace with his decision.

“I’m happy because I know it’s the right decision,” Federer told a news conference ahead of the Laver Cup, a team competition that pits Europe against the rest of the world.

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He cited the challenges of injuries and surgeries contributing to his decision.

“Obviously, I’m nervous going in, because I haven’t played in so long,” he said of Friday’s match.

Only Nadal (22) and Novak Djokovic (21) have more Grand Slam titles than Federer. Countless showdowns between the three stars have gripped tennis fans over the last two decades and spurred the debate over which competitor is the “GOAT” of the trio.

Matteo Berrettini will replace Federer on Team Europe after Friday’s doubles match. The Laver Cup runs through Sunday.

(Photo: Clive Brunskill / Getty Images for Laver Cup)

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