Tennis had many big rivalries and even bigger partnerships. But two of the biggest stars of the current era, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer, are unique in that they share a great deal of both rivalry and friendship. They have had their on-court rivalry for more than a decade now, but their mutual respect and off-court friendship is also well known.

Whenever they have played against each other, it has produced high-end tennis, while them playing together as a team was always a treat for the eye. Recently, Marion Bartoli gave her take on the nature of the relationship between Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.

Read More: ‘What A Monster’: Fans React to Resurgent Juan Martin Del Potro at Practice Ahead of Possible Farewell Match

Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer share a true friendship

French former professional Marion Bartoli gave some inside details as she said, “Roger and Rafa are real friends. As soon as they can be together, they take pleasure in it. We can check it in the Player’s Lounge where the tables of his team are glued to that of Federer.”

(Quotes have been translated using Google Translate)

Both players have on many occasions expressed their huge respect and admiration for each other. They played for Team Europe in the inaugural Laver Cup and played together in a doubles match, back in 2017.

“Roger has been a huge part of my career, a big rival and also a true friend,” said Nadal recently about Federer.

Bartoli also said that the message Roger posted on Rafael Nadal‘s 2022 Australian Open victory was completely sincere.