Rafael Nadal makes stance clear on Roger Federer relationship as he prepares for tennis retirement
Rafael Nadal has opened up on his relationship with Roger Federer
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Tennis superstar Rafael Nadal has opened up on his relationship with long-term rival Roger Federer.
The two legends of the sport tussled it out for years for Grand Slam prizes with 42 titles between them.
But while the duo have put on some ferocious displays on tennis courts around the world, he has never considered him a close friend.
Nadal admitted it was 'difficult' to be great pals with his biggest rival - but he has immense respect for the Swiss star.
Rafael Nadal has opened up on his relationship with Roger Federer
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"It's difficult to be a true friend of a rival, but not because of the competition but because you have to be around them every day," the Spaniard told ElHormiguero.
"Roger is a great teammate, we've done some great things together and competed for important things.
"Normal people end up having a great appreciation for their greatest rival.
"We've understood sport in a healthy way, but we've handled the rivalry in an appropriate , sensible way and we've always known how to appreciate each other."
Nadal has faced Federer 40 times over his career on the ATP Tour, winning 24 times - including 14 in finals.
The 38-year-old last played on July 21, reaching the Swedish Open final before losing to world No. 7 Nuno Borges.
Before that, having been ravaged by injuries in recent times, Nadal was eliminated from the French Open in the first round by Alexander Zverev.
Roland Garros has been Nadal's playground in the past and he has an incredible 14 French Open titles - more than any other player.
But the Mallorca-born star has admitted that retirement might be on the horizon.
"I understand that I'm retiring," he added. "It's been a long time.
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Rafael Nadal admitted he and Roger Federer might not be the best of friends
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"I've had a lot of physical problems and the question is normal. There comes a time when I can't live with retirement, because otherwise you don't finish trying.
"I've given myself some time to enjoy tennis after a year and a half off the court and that's what I'm doing, enjoying the day to day.
"In the end, I'm giving myself time and making my decision when I'm clear about it. I try to do things as well as possible.
"I ask that they don't bring up my retirement in every press conference because otherwise I end up believing that I'm going to retire.
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"Right now my goals for the year are over, I haven't achieved what I would have liked to achieve.
"I hoped to be healthier than I was, the injury at the beginning of the year was unexpected. I think I arrived at the time I most wanted, but I had an unsuitable draw at Roland Garros.
"It's an option, right now the goals are over and I'm giving myself time. I'm enjoying training and other things in life."