Rafael Nadal - Fantastic relationship with Roger Federer
The Spaniard talks about one of his greatest rivals in an interview. And about an athlete with whom he would like to trade.
by tennisnet.com
last edit: Apr 09, 2019, 07:06 am
The fact that the relationship between Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer goes beyond the usual norm among top athletes could be seen at the end of 2016 at the latest: The Swiss gave the guest of honor at the opening of the Rafa Nadal Academy. In the previous years, the two superstars had also met in various exhibition fights, supporting mutual concerns.
A few weeks ago in Indian Wells, Nadal and Federer met for coffee to discuss the future of tennis. It is no secret that both participants in the intimate coffee party would have seen this future best in the hands of Chris Kermode. However, his contract was not renewed, reportedly at the urging of world number one Novak Djokovic.
Rafael Nadal appreciates Tiger Woods
Which only makes the bond between Nadal and Federer even stronger. "I would not speak of a friendship," said the Spaniard in an interview with the IoDonna magazine. "But I have a fantastic relationship with Roger Federer." Which naturally ends in match operations. “You have to stay cool on the pitch. And push yourself beyond the limit. "
This is exactly what Nadal will try in Monte Carlo next Monday, where he is aiming for his twelfth title. After retiring from the Indian Wells semi-final against Federer, Nadal has prepared at home in his academy. And probably also spent a few hours on the golf course. Incidentally, he would have seen his alternative career there. When asked which athlete he would have liked to trade with, Nadal didn't have to think long: with Tiger Woods. What he particularly appreciates about the American? "Its high intensity."