'It's been an honor': Roger Federer Reacts To Greatest Rival Rafael Nadal Announcing Retirement

Arguably the greatest Tennis player of all time, Rafael Nadal, announced his retirement from professional Tennis. In an emotional video post, Rafa shared the current state of his fitness and having kept everything in mind the 22-time Grand Slam champion stated that the time is right to bid adieu to a glorious career, which spanned over 20 years. The King of Clay will officially hang up his boots at the end of the 2024 season. The Davis Cup final will be his concluding appearance as a Tennis player.  

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Roger Federer Reacts On Rafael Nadal's Retirement Announcement

Rafael Nadal leaving the game of Tennis will create a huge void that may never get filled. While his achievements are limited to the annals of Tennis, his impact is transmitted to the entire world. The never-say-die attitude, the determination to cover the entire court in a second and then return the ball with brute force, and the authoritative roar after winning a tough point, set him apart. These on-court characteristics left lessons for the avid watchers to inculcate and enact in their lives.

As the eminent player has announced his retirement, the entire sporting fraternity has united to celebrate the career of an undisputed legend. Let alone fans, some of the biggest stakeholders in the global sport have posted congratulatory messages for Rafael Nadal for culminating a successful career. His biggest on-court rival Roger Federer spearheaded the trail.

Federer expressed "absolute honor" in sharing the court with Nadal and exhibited gratitude for the unforgettable memories he rendered.

"What a career, Rafa! I always hoped this day would never come. Thank you for the unforgettable memories and all your incredible achievements in the game we love. It's been an absolute honor!", Roger Federer left a comment on Rafael Nadal's Instagram post.

Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal are two of the greatest players who graced the court and as destiny had it, both played in the same era. The two share 42 Grand Slams together. Novak Djokovic is also present in the rivalry mix. The trio formed the moniker, Big 3. However, with Roger Federer already retired, Rafael Nadal set to depart following the end of the season, Novak Djokovic will remain as the last relic of the glorious epoch.