Roger Federer and I are NOT close friends: Rafael Nadal breaks fans' hearts

Although Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal have had one of most iconic rivalries in tennis, y have seemed to show respect and admiration for each or on several occasions. Hence, raising question - Are Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal friends? Rafael Nadal's response may break fans' hearts.

Latest tennis news: Are Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal friends?

Even though Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal's relationship has improved over years, Rafael Nadal has insisted that y are yet t 'close friends.' "We are very good companions and as time went on, our relationship improved. We are t close friends, I would t tell him that my knee hurts before facing him!” said  Spaniard. However, interestingly Rafael Nadal revealed that he spoke to Swiss Maestro today. "We can call each or anytime and speak about anything. I spoke with him just today," added 20-time Grand Slam champion.

Latest tennis news: Rafael Nadal reveals lack of motivation due to absence of family on ATP tour

While Rafael Nadal has been working very hard to prepare for clay-court season, he has revealed a lack of motivation for older players who are used to travelling with ir family on ATP tour. Nadal said, "I want to be competitive and well-prepared heading into Monte Carlo and whole clay-court swing, which is most crucial time of year for me. I am working very hard for that. It's sad to play without that extra energy from family and friends. It's strange, especially for us older players who used to travel with family and many or people.''

Roger Federer injury news and future plans

After being sidelined due to a knee injury for more than a year, Roger Federer finally made his return to ATP tour at Doha Open about a month ago. However, after losing to Nikoloz Basilashvili in quarter-finals, Federer revealed on social media that he was still t at a 100% yet. As a result, Federer withdrew from Dubai Open and w has his sights on Olympics.

" Olympics is a major goal for me. Unfortunately, I missed Rio Olympics (in 2016) because of a left knee injury. I hope I will return to Tokyo Olympics. I hope that I will be fully in (shape) by n and that questions about my knee will stop," said Federer.