Rafael Nadal Speaks Out on Relationship With Roger Federer and His Return: ‘We Talk Very Often’

Published 12/18/2021, 12:14 AM EST

Tennis fans are desperately waiting for the legendary Roger Federer to return to the courts. The Maestro has been away from the sport since Wimbledon 2021 as he required another knee surgery. Recently, Rafael Nadal, who made his comeback in Abu Dhabi, opened up about Federer’s much-awaited return and their friendship.

The rivals share an excellent bond and even pair up for doubles at the Laver Cup, their pairing affectionately known as “Fedal”. After his match against Andy Murray at the Mubadala World Tennis Championship, Rafa was asked about Roger’s fitness and their relationship.

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Rafael Nadal speaks on Roger Federer’s comeback

Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer remain good friends despite having one of the most intense on-court rivalries of all time. Recently, at the Abu Dhabi exhibition tournament, the Spaniard was asked for a quick update on Federer’s return to tennis. However, Nadal’s answer didn’t give much away in a reserved answer.

“I am nobody to say what we talk about privately, but yes, I have a very fluid relationship with Roger, we talk very often, I always knew what intention he has on trying to come back but I will not be the one who says when,” Nadal said when asked to speak on Roger Federer.

From the Spaniard’s answer, it’s clear that only Roger will divulge the details of his return whenever he wishes to do so.

Nadal was asked if he has any news on Federer:
I am nobody to say what we talk about privately, but yes, I have a very fluid relationship with Roger, we talk very often, I always knew what intention he has on trying to come back but I will not be the one who says when.
— Reem Abulleil (@ReemAbulleil) December 17, 2021

Nadal’s rusty return to tennis

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Speaking of comebacks, Rafael Nadal made his entry into tennis again. The Former World No. 1 hadn’t competed professionally since Washington Open in August, due to his foot injury. Nevertheless, he faced the three-time Grand Slam champion, Andy Murray, for his comeback match in Abu Dhabi.

Murray, who found himself in the unusual position of having more momentum on tour than his opponent, edged past the Spaniard in straight sets 6-3, 7-5. However, Rafa considers this as a decent comeback as he said, “For me, this is a comeback. It wasn’t a bad match for me. After a long time on a professional court, so positive feelings.”

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After seeing Rafael on the court again, tennis fans are even more desperate for Roger Federer to bring his elegant game back. When do you think he will return to professional tennis?

Rafael Nadal Receives Special Honor From Fellow ATP Players for 4th Consecutive Year

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Atri Bhatt is a Tennis author at EssentiallySports. He is pursuing his Master's degree in Sports Management from Deakin University, Australia. In addition to critically analysing the game, he also plays tennis professionally.

Rafael Nadal Speaks Out on Relationship With Roger Federer and His Return: ‘We Talk Very Often’

Rafael Nadal speaks on Roger Federer’s comeback

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Nadal’s rusty return to tennis