Rafael Nadal may be out of the 2023 Australian Open, but he’s had his share of glorious moments in the sport. Among many include his 2019 US Open triumphs in a five-set thriller. However, two matches before his final against the Russian Daniel Medvedev, Nadal’s performance in the fourth round of the Grand Slam impressed the golfing great Tiger Woods, who was at the match in New York.

Thanks to their longstanding deal with Nike, Woods and Nadal have forged a close bond over the years. Both athletes have previously given each other a lot of admiration. The tennis star had paid a visit to several of Tiger’s events in the past.

However, in the 2019 US Open, Rafa was seeking his second Grand Slam win of the year. During his journey to the big win, the Tennis star had the support of the Hall of Famer golfer who was in the stands to watch Nadal. Following his win, Woods had some words of praise for his fellow athlete buddy.

Tiger Woods was impressed by Rafael Nadal

In the fourth round of the 2019 US Open, Rafa was drawn against the 2014 winner of the Grand Slam Martin Cilic. Nonetheless, the Spaniard eased passed the Croatian, as he defeated Cilic in four sets with utter domination.

His performance left many impressed including Tiger Woods who was in attendance at Arthur Ashe Stadium. The 15-time Major winner took to Twitter to share his thoughts on his tennis buddy’s incredible performance. “What a great night watching Rafael Nadal”, Woods wrote before adding, “Just an incredible performance and awesome way to close out the match”.

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Later, the man of the moment Rafael Nadal shared his experience of playing in front of the golfing legend. Rafa said, “For me it’s a huge honor playing in front of all of you of course, but playing in front of Tiger for me is a very special thing”. The Tennis star then claimed to not have any idols except the Hall of Famer Tiger Woods.

“I never had a big idol but if I had to say, one idol it’s him. I try to follow him every single shot that he hits through the whole year”, said Nadal. The Spaniard went on to claim his 19th Major title a few weeks later in the US Open final. The win must have brought a wider smile to his idol’s face.

Undoubtedly both stars are legends of their respective sports. The feats they have earned are beyond imaginable. It is an honor for the fans to watch both sporting giants master their sport while also having a deep respect for each other. With Tiger Woods barely competing professionally currently, he may find more time to watch his Tennis buddy in the upcoming US Open.

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