When it comes to tennis, two names stand out from the rest, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. The two created one of the rivalry for the ages and made people fall in love with the game. However, the rivalry ended when Federer announced his retirement in 2022. Despite being rivals, the world saw an emotional Rafael Nadal congratulating Roger for his incredible career.

Recently at the Shanghai Masters, the 20-time grand slam winner reflected on the rivalry against Nadal and had nothing but respect for his rival-cum-freind. Federer, who made his visit to Shanghai recently reflected on the rivalry that the two had while revealing how he felt playing against him in China.

Roger Federer reflects on his rivalry with Rafael Nadal

In a recent interview at the Shanghai Masters, tennis legend Roger Federer provided insight into his rivalry with Rafael Nadal. Federer’s words depicted the rivalry that the two had for years and took the fans in nostalgia when the two would often step on the courts to produce some of the best matches on the courts.

“I’ve played Rafa on so many occasions. Almost, not on every court, but in almost all the big matches all around the world. I’m happy we could do it here. Not just once, but 3 times…” said Federer while talking about his rivalry with the Spanish giant.

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Federer, in the same interview, revealed his happiness at facing Nadal not just once but three times at the Shanghai Masters. The two last met each other in China back in 2017 when Roger Federer faced off against Rafel Nadal in the finals of the tournament.

The match was one-sided and Federer won the match against an injury-ridden Nadal. Thus, the two have produced one of the biggest rivalries that the game has ever seen. However, despite being rivals on the tennis courts, they had nothing but love and respect for each other. His recent revelation in China gave an insight into the love and respect that both have for each other. Also, his visit to China will mark another major milestone in his career as he will receive major recognition at the Shanghai Masters.

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Federer will receive a special award at the Shanghai Masters this year

This will be the first time that Federer will be visiting China not as a player. Over the years, Federer made everyone in the country fall in love with him with his dynamic gameplay. Federer, whose trip to China was highly speculated finally made it come true as he made a special appearance at the Shanghai Masters.

Also, this year, the Swiss international will also receive the ‘Icon Athlete‘ award in Shanghai which will be awarded to him for his illustrious career. Thus, over the years, Roger Federer has received massive recognition due to the way he changed the dynamics of the game.

The rivalry produced by him and Rafa will be entertained by upcoming generations to come. What are your views on this? What do you think about the rivalry between Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal? Who according to you is the real GOAT? Do let us know in the comments below!

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