Nadal alongside Roger Federer after winning the 2009 Australian Open title. (Getty Images)
Roger Federer thanked two Spain greats – Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz for their heartfelt wishes on his retirement
The 20-time Grand Slam champion recently made the announcement on Twitter, and since then, fans and fellow legends have been thanking him for the entertainment he has provided over the last 24 years.
One of the most decorated players in the history of the sport, Federer has been an institution and a trailblazer. He has influenced many players and his achievements speak volumes of the kind of generational talent he is.
During his illustrious career, Federer has had many rivalries with fellow players. Rafael Nadal will certainly be one of his greatest rivals on the court. However, they have immense mutual respect and will be on the same team, representing Europe at the upcoming Laver Cup. The Spaniard wrote an emotional message for the Swiss stalwart after hearing about his retirement. Nadal tweeted:
“Dear Roger,my friend and rival. I wish this day would have never come. It’s a sad day for me personally and for sports around the world. It’s been a pleasure but also an honor and privilege to share all these years with you, living so many amazing moments on and off the court”
In a second tweet, Nadal wrote:
“We will have many more moments to share together in the future, there are still lots of things to do together, we know that. For now, I truly wish you all the happiness with your wife, Mirka, your kids, your family and enjoy what’s ahead of you. I’ll see you in London @LaverCup“
Federer responded by sharing the post on his Instagram story and replied saying, “Thanks for the nice words, Rafa,” and added a handshake emoticon.
Federer has a healthy 24-16 lead against the southpaw in terms of the head-to-head scoreline. However, the matches they played were a treat to watch for the fans. Coaches will certainly use the highlights of these matches to enlighten their students as they ooze class and technique.
The 19-year-old Carlos Alcaraz has been on fire this season. After bagging four titles earlier in the year, the Spaniard notched up his first title triumph at a major event by winning the US Open.
Carlos Alcaraz considers Rafael Nadal his idol. However, his respect for Roger Federer is also second to none as he posted a touching message on Instagram to pay homage to the veteran.
Alcaraz posted a picture of him and Federer and wrote:
“Roger has been one of my idols and a source of inspiration! 🥲 Thank you for everything you have done for our sport! I still want to play with you! 🥹 Wish you all the luck in the world for what comes next! @rogerfederer“
The 41-year-old replied to this and wrote:
“Thanks for your kind words. Enjoying watching your rise. Congrats on the Open Carlitos”
The immensely talented Carlos Alcaraz will certainly get a lot of motivation from this message of acknowledgment from one of the greatest players of all time. Unfortunately, tennis fans will not be seeing a Federer-Alcaraz showdown on the tour.
The youngster will next be seen in action at the Astana Open. He will start from the main draw of the tournament on the 3rd of October. The tournament is held in Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan, and Alcaraz is certainly one of the biggest stars to compete at the event. The brand new World No. 1 will be geared up to add another trophy to his kitty.
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