The Laver Cup week in Prague has led to very special moments in the relationship between Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.
These pictures went around the world, pictures that have made tennis history.The two most successful tennis players of the Open Era, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, not only played in one team at the Laver Cup, but also competed together in doubles.The highlight of the “Fedal”week in Prague was Federer’s win in the final singles against Nick Kyrgios.After the converted match point, Nadal was the first to run into the court and jumped into his permanent rival’s arms.
Referring to the relationship between the two, Federer commented:”It has changed.We had tough and painful fights on the course, as well as difficulties, but there was always tremendous respect between us.We have shared many intense moments on and off the course, in a friendly way.When we were growing up, I realized how important Rafa was to my career.He will be my ultimate enemy forever.He was the one who helped me most to become a better player.At the same time, I say that if Rafa hadn’t been there, I wouldn’t have won so much.Rafa’s presence was an extra motivation.”
The Laver Cup week in Prague left a lasting impression on Federer,”We were a team and trained together.In such situations on the training ground, you are almost happy when they defeat you because it means they are in good shape.You don’t usually like to lose, but this is where we trained as a team.These are the little things that don’t happen on the tour because you’re thinking about yourself.You want to choose your lessons and win in training sessions.”To spend such a week in a group with Rafa and the others was very special.”