New Delhi: There were no dry eyes in the O2 Arena when Roger Federer’s tennis career came to an end in the 2022 Laver Cup. The Swiss superstar Roger Federer announced his retirement more than a week ago, while also preparing all of his fans around the world. The tears that were streaming from the numerous onlookers’ eyes were not stopped by it. On Day 1 of the event on Friday, Roger and his fiercest adversary, Rafael Nadal, lost a doubles match against Frances Tiafoe and Jack Sock in a nail-biting tiebreaker, 4-6, 7-6 (2), (11-9). The two had previously teamed up for the 2017 Laver Cup, so this was their second time doing so.

 

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Rafael was overcome with emotion as he understood his career was coming to an end, similar to Federer. Following the match, Rafael stated, “With Roger leaving the tour, certainly a major part of my life is departing also because of all the occasions that he has been next to or in front of me.” Therefore, it has been difficult to see the family and other people.

Federer and Rafael have a lengthy history of competition. They had 40 or so encounters on the court. Around six of the final seven matches were won by Roger, while Rafael took the overall series between the two by a score of 24-16. It includes the Wimbledon semifinal of 2019.

The 22-time Grand Slam champion told reporters that he has cherished his competitive yet cordial relationship with Rafael throughout the years as he prepares to retire. We can reflect on a lot of things, Roger remarked. Every time we spend an evening together, I feel like there is never enough time. I’m overjoyed to be able to call Rafael and discuss anything.

Despite the fact that they play in distinct ways, the two share a unique bond off the court. Our rivalry and matches are perhaps the largest and most exciting because of our differing playing styles, according to Rafael. “I believe that the personal relationship improves year after year.” After everything we experienced together and everything significant we fought over for such a long time, it’s something incredibly lovely.

Roger finishes his career with the third-most Grand Slam victories among male players. He has won a record number of Wimbledon championships and once held the No. 1 spot for an unprecedented 237 weeks.