After sharing a long and grueling rivalry for 19 years, Roger Federer wished to retire after playing his last match with Rafael Nadal. Even after winning eight titles at Wimbledon, Federer retired from professional tennis after playing at a team-based tournament. Now that Nadal has announced his plausible plans to retire from professional tennis in 2024, can we see him ending it the same way as Federer?

The important question of Nadal’s final step looms over his fans. However, would it be too far-fetched to assume that Rafa would also want to finish his career in style with his greatest rival?

Will Rafael Nadal pay an ode to his rivalry with Roger Federer?

The two tennis legends have defined the sport in its true sense of sportsmanship and integrity. Despite being rivals who faced each other on the court a whopping 40 times, the two have shared one of the most celebrated friendships of all time.

So much so that Roger Federer retired after playing his last match with Rafael Nadal at last year’s Laver Cup. This tournament allowed the two players to play together by being on the same side. Now Rafael Nadal has also announced his plans to retire from professional tennis in 2024. And the chances of history repeating itself are high.

No matter how intense their rivalry got, the two always maintained a wholesome friendship. As per his plausible plans, he wishes to retire after playing the 2024 season, possibly at the French Open. In his recent press conference, he stated, “I want to play the last tournaments important for me like @Paris2024.” However, there is a catch in his next statement. He stated, “Will it be my last tournament? I don’t know.”

So, the possibility of Nadal bidding the sport farewell along with his arch-rival Roger Federer might just come true.

READ MORE: 36-Year-Old Rafael Nadal’s Absence Already Causing Heart-Breaks in the Tennis World as Doubles Veteran Expresses Sorrow With an Inspiring Message

Going down the memory lane, the two shared a wholesome moment at the Laver Cup. The duo cried their eyes out and held hands, proving their allegiance to their friendship and rivalry both on and off the court.

Will Nadal follow the same path as Federer?

During his press conference, he revealed that he is withdrawing from Roland Garros this year because of his injury. The reason being, he wants to come back stronger next year and win more titles.

However, a similar statement was made by the Swiss Maestro after his injury at the 2021 Wimbledon. But after giving some teasing posts in his Instagram, he ended up retiring at the 2022 Laver Cup.

WATCH THIS STORY: ‘Rafa Is Usually the Grabber, Not the Grabbie’- Spanish Tennis Veteran’s Adorable Rafael Nadal ‘B*TT’ Tale Sparks Hilarious Reactions From Fans

Do you think Nadal will be able to come back stronger next year and maybe win his 15th French Open title? Let us know your views in the comments below.