Hand in hand and in tears, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal reflect on what was and will never be. A picture that will go down in history. Who was the longest-lasting? It goes without saying that it was one of the most moving scenes in sports history. Tennis enthusiasts everywhere are being impacted by the Prime Video series Roger Federer: Twelve Final Days. It centers on the final days of the Swiss maestro’s career, which he spent at the 2022 Laver Cup, which was held in London’s O2 Arena, alongside his family and fiercest competitors.
Federer remembered that incredible moment and attempted to articulate the feelings he was experiencing in an interview with WELT.
As a token of appreciation for Rafa, it was a very important occasion. To let him know how much I valued his presence, I said nothing at all. After the US Open, his pregnant wife experienced some health issues. I told him that I was quitting tennis for that reason before I told the others. “Would you like to play doubles with me?” I asked him. For the first time, there was some silence and peace while we sat there and Ellie Goulding sung, so I let everything go. You simply believe at that period in his life that you are extremely fortunate. It was lovely: every single one of my family was there, all my friends, the team and all the players. I was surrounded by legends. Rafa sat next to me and it was special. We are always in contact and recently we were together in the Dolomites filming the video made by Louis Vuitton. It’s a difficult phase for him, but I think he actually did well throughout the clay season. Having lost early to Alexander Zverev at Roland Garros, he can now take it easy ahead of the Olympic Games. Obviously I wish him only the best,” explained the Swiss Maestro.”As a token of appreciation for Rafa, it was a very special occasion. Federer continued, “Just to let him know how much his presence meant to me, without saying anything at all.
On the day he played his final match as a professional tennis player, Roger wanted all of his fiercest opponents to be there.
Specifically, the Swiss icon made a unique gesture to honor a rivalry that has shaped tennis history and aided in the expansion of the movement as a whole. Rafael Nadal was really invited to play doubles by Federer, and the moment that captured the Laver Cup at the conclusion of the match is still ingrained in the memories of all tennis fans.
