Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal ‘couldn’t stand each other’ as relationship details emerge

Roger Federer has admitted that he and Rafa Nadal “couldn’t stand each other” earlier in their tennis careers as the retired Swiss star has reflected on the pair’s relationship. With 42 Grand Slam singles titles between them, it was evident that there was a great deal of mutual respect involved in what has been one of the greatest rivalries in sport in recent history.

They faced off 40 times with Nadal narrowly edging Federer as the Spaniard claimed 24 wins to the now-retired star’s 16, while their 2008 Wimbledon final is widely regarded as the greatest tennis match of all time. While the pair now enjoy a strong relationship, it was not always the same as Federer relayed.

“We started respecting the rivalry,” Federer said at a Big 3 event. “We almost miss it, playing each other every weekend. Back in the day we couldn’t stand each other probably for that. He’s a great man. I wish he can come back one more time but he has shown the tennis world and the fans how good he is.”

The 41-year-old explained further how his bond with Nadal has grown stronger over the years and changed as they moved into the twilight of their careers, as Federer retired last year with Nadal by his side at the Laver Cup. “I’m five years older than Rafa, so when I came on tour I saw young, junior Rafa come through and he was extremely good, very young,” he added.