The legendary rivalry between Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal transformed from fierce battles into a deep and lasting friendship. Federer’s elegant serve-and-volley met Nadal’s unstoppable topspin, creating unforgettable matches. None more iconic than the 2008 Wimbledon final, often hailed as the greatest ever. Despite intense on-court clashes, mutual respect blossomed. Their bond was clear when Federer teared up beside Nadal at his 2022 Laver Cup farewell, a moment echoed again at Rafa’s farewell this May. Now, both are retired and no longer play together, but they’ve found a new hobby that brings them closer!

Fans know the ATP legends have recently taken up golf. Roger and Rafa have traded rackets for golf clubs. Today, they sent a message to the pros in the sport. On Roger’s Instagram story, he posted a video cheering on Team Europe at the Ryder Cup, which runs Friday to Sunday!

“Hello everybody, from the golf course here in Mallorca. I wanted to wish you all the very, very best for the Ryder Cup and Team Europe. We are behind you, maybe, in the future, we will have a new player in the team,” Federer said. He turned to Nadal, who was mid-swing, and Rafa laughed: “A few more years!”

The two laughed together. Then Nadal shared his own thoughts. “I’m a very big fan of golf, so I’m gonna enjoy a lot watching you guys. And yeah, I think it’s going to be amazing, and this is an opportunity to show your best golf. I’m sure you’re going to try very hard because we need to win. So all the best, we will be supporting.”

The 2025 Ryder Cup runs September 26-28 at Bethpage Black in New York. Keegan Bradley captains the U.S. team, meanwhile, Luke Donald leads defending champions Europe after their 2023 win in Rome! Bethpage Black will host intense match play events, foursomes, fourball, and singles.

Now, Europe aims to hold its crown, while the U.S. looks to use home advantage. We know Roger and Rafa have their fingers crossed! But the 20 time grand slam champion has had something on his mind as well: possibly a tour that brings the “Fedal” energy back on tour!

Roger Federer shares  his thoughts on returning on tour with Rafa

Last weekend in San Francisco, at the very place he launched the Laver Cup and said goodbye to competitive tennis three years ago, Roger shared an exciting idea. In a lively interview with CNBC, the Swiss maestro revealed his dream of hitting the court again with Rafael Nadal in a new exhibition tour, playfully dubbed the “Fedal Tour.” When the host asked if he’d start a “senior tour” with Rafa, Federer’s answer was quick and clear: “Yeah, why not?”

Federer talked about staying in shape, mentioning he recently played four hours of tennis in San Francisco and another hour and a half in Los Angeles. “I love Rafa,” he said warmly, “and I know that Rafa is also totally open to play some tennis.” Federer’s love for the game is obvious. Despite stepping away from competitive tennis, he clearly wants to keep the connection alive on the court.

Imagining a return of these legends is pure tennis magic. Federer laughed off the “senior” label, saying, “It sounds terrible,” but embraced the idea of their own special tour. “Maybe we can create a tour like a Fedal tour or something like that. I mean, it would be cool.”

Nadal echoed similar thoughts earlier this year, telling journalists, “I know I’ll be back at some point to play an exhibition match or something like that.” He emphasized that such events need serious preparation. “When you play an exhibition, you want to show your tennis skills to the fans and everyone who organized it.”

There’s no doubt that after three years, it would be incredible to see them back in action. So, what do you think? Will these two icons bring the Fedal magic back? Share your thoughts below!