“It meant the world to me when my peers stood by me”: Roger Federer pays tearful tribute to Rafael Nadal

Monday, 26 May 2025 at 14:48

Rafael Nadal’s farewell on Sunday at Roland Garros was marked by the emotional presence of the Big Four, honouring the Spanish legend. The most heartfelt message came from Roger Federer, who delivered a moving tribute to his longtime rival, even holding back tears.

The 20-time Grand Slam champion has often referred to Nadal as the greatest rival of his career. Long before the rise of Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray, it was Federer and Nadal who dominated the finals and major titles, forging a rivalry that defined an era and left a lasting mark on tennis history.

From rivals to brothers

Back in 2022, it was Federer who said goodbye to professional tennis at the Laver Cup, playing a memorable doubles match alongside Nadal. That tearful moment brought closure to nearly 20 years of a legendary rivalry, with the Big Four gathered and Nadal visibly emotional beside him.

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“I think farewells are important when you’ve had a career like his — he’s a giant of the game,” Federer said, recalling his own retirement in London. “If we can contribute a little bit by being here with Novak and Andy and symbolically tie things together, I think that’s beautiful. It meant the world to me when my peers stood by me, and I think it helps bring closure.”

“Respect also, from me personally, towards Rafa, his family, and his team,” Federer added during the ceremony. “We played so many incredible matches, so hard-fought and intense, I couldn’t miss this when they asked me to come.”

Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal played 40-times. The Spaniard leads H2H 24-16.

Federer reflects on Nadal and the legacy of the Big 4

Many believe Nadal and Federer shared the greatest rivalry in tennis history — and there’s plenty of evidence to support it. While Federer was nearly unbeatable on the Tour for years, Nadal emerged as the one player capable of truly challenging him. In the end, Nadal led their head-to-head 24–16 across 40 encounters, including a dominant 10–4 record in their 14 Grand Slam battles.

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From July 2005 to August 2011, they held the top two spots in the rankings and together won 22 of the 25 Grand Slam titles in that period. In the following decade, Djokovic and Murray joined the party, but the Federer-Nadal rivalry always held a special place.

The Swiss Maestro also praised the camaraderie shared by the Big Four, especially as their careers wind down. “It definitely helps, but even when I came on tour, friendships were common — players spent more time together because teams weren’t as large.”

The Big Four reunites again, this time for Nadal's farewell

“It’s harder now. Still, I’m not sure if the very best before us got along the way we do. When Rafa and I stood on court together, I think we both felt it. It’s nice that me, Novak, Rafa, Andy — we all get along. You could put us in a room and we’d have a great time. It sends a strong message to the world.”

“But once we stepped on court, it was pure rivalry. We all wanted to win, fair and square, and it was intense. Still, after the match, we could be friends again — and I think that’s important too.”

Rafa Nadal and Roger Federer during Rafa’s tribute at Roland Garros.

The level of ‘iconic’ in this photo is off the charts.

Fedal forever.

🖤🧡 pic.twitter.com/TbSFBUHkKD
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) May 25, 2025

Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist

Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.

His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.

In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.

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