Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal have been at the center of the G.O.A.T debate for years. The two men are now finally on level terms in one of the biggest factors for success in that debate – the number of Grand Slams won. While this gives rise to more comparisons between the two, Nadal simply laid rest to those discussions.

The Spaniard called his Swiss counterpart “one of the greatest men in the history of sport”, and not just in tennis. Many have opined that Federer is the more naturally talented player among the two. However, Nadal does not believe in comparisons based on talent, as he feels each player has his own talent.

“What does talent mean?” asked Nadal, countering the question asked to him. “Each of us has his own talent. Everything is easy for one, the other knows how to stay on the pitch for a long time.”

Rafael Nadal highlights similarities and differences with Roger Federer

Nadal then referred to Federer as his ‘compañero’, or his companion, and felt that their rivalry had helped them both as well as the sport. “He was my big rival, that was good for both of us and also for tennis,” Nadal expressed.

At the same time, Rafa highlighted the similarities between the two superstars of the sport. “We’re similar in some things. We ensure peace and quiet, for family,” Nadal expressed. However, hailing from different backgrounds and countries, Nadal feels they are quite different in how they live their lives.

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“He’s Swiss, I’m Latino. We have different characters, cultures, and ways of life,” Nadal said further.

(Quotes have been translated to English via Google Translate)

The history and future of the Federer-Nadal rivalry

Despite the differentiating factors, Federer and Nadal get along quite well. They have shared the biggest rivalry in tennis for over 15 years now and are always trying to outdo each other for the biggest honors in tennis. However, they have maintained respect for each other on and off the court even during the tensest situations in the build-up to or during a match.

As Federer works towards a comeback, the next time Federer and Nadal could renew their rivalry is at the Australian Open 2021. And if they end up playing each other there, fans could very well witness one of their toughest battles yet as they aim to surpass each other in the Grand Slam battle.

“Cannot Choose Between Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer”: 6-Time Grand Slam Champion