Roger Federer’s touching tribute to ‘greatest rival’ Rafael Nadal after Spaniard joins him on 20 Slams

Roger Federer has paid tribute to Rafael Nadal after the Spaniard drew level with him on 20 Grand Slams with victory at Roland Garros.
Nadal beat world No 1 Novak Djokovic in straight sets on Court Philippe Chatrier in the French Open final on Sunday to win a 13th title in Paris and join Federer on 20 majors.
The 39-year-old Federer, whose last major came at the 2018 Australian Open, says he hopes Nadal’s latest success is “just another step on the continuing journey for both of us”.
“I have always had the utmost respect for my friend Rafa as a person and as a champion,” he wrote.
“As my greatest rival over many years, I believe we have pushed each other to become better players. Therefore, it is a true honor for me to congratulate him on his 20th Grand Slam victory.
“It is especially amazing that he has now won Roland Garros an incredible 13 times, which is one of the greatest achievements in sport. I also congratulate his team, because nobody can do this alone.
“I hope 20 is just another step on the continuing journey for both of us. Well done, Rafa. You deserve it.”
Follow us on Twitter @T365Official and like our Facebook page.
Latest
-
Wimbledon
Wimbledon day four: British favourites fall but Cameron Norrie keeps home flag flying
Cameron Norrie ensured at least one Briton would reach the third round.
-
Wimbledon
Andy Murray will ask how much more he can take after Wimbledon defeat
It was almost as if Andy Murray…
-
News
Cameron Norrie not trying to ‘make a name’ for himself at Wimbledon
The British number one won in five sets to make the third round at SW19 for a second consecutive year.
-
Tennis News
Novak Djokovic offers support to family of Boris Becker
Novak Djokovic has hosted Becker’s family in his player’s box in both rounds of Wimbledon so far.
-
Tennis News
Novak Djokovic to make Laver Cup call after Wimbledon
Novak Djokovic is interested in taking part in the Laver Cup.
-
US Open
John McEnroe paints a grim picture for Novak Djokovic
John McEnroe sees a future where Novak Djokovic ends the year ranked outside the top 40.
-
Wimbledon
Emma Raducanu’s Wimbledon dream dies – but what comes next matters more
Raducanu may have failed to live up to ridiculous Wimbledon expectations, but it is far too early to write her off.
-
Wimbledon
Novak Djokovic blows past Thanasi Kokkinakis in straight sets
The reigning champion dropped just seven games on Centre Court.
-
Tennis News
Alexander Zverev ‘in a positive mood’ as rehab begins
Alexander Zverev in a good mood as rehab journey begins.
-
US Open
Novak Djokovic says there is no ‘medical logic’ behind banning unvaccinated players from US Open
Novak Djokovic perplexed by decision not to allow unvaccinated players to compete at US Open.