Karachi: In a heartfelt note on Twitter, Spanish tennis star Rafael Nadal called the news of Swiss maestro Roger Federer’s retirement a “sad day” for the sport.
Nadal, part of tennis’ Big Three that includes Federer and Serbian star Novak Djokovic, says he was happy to share the court with one of his biggest rivals throughout his career.
“Dear Roger, my friend and rival,” Nadal tweeted. “I wish this day had never come. It’s a sad day for me personally and for sports around the world.
“It has been a pleasure, but also an honor and privilege, to share all these years with you, having so many wonderful moments on and off the court.”
Nadal added that it was not a line for the two and they would meet again on court, but probably not professionally. “We will have many more moments to share with each other in the future, there are still many things to do together, we know.
“For now, I really wish you all the best with your wife Mirka, your children, your family and enjoy what lies ahead. I’ll see you in London at the @LaverCup will see.
Earlier, Federer broke the news that fans around the world have long dreaded when he announced on Thursday that he will retire from competitive tennis after next week’s Lever Cup in London.
The 41-year-old Swiss, who has won 20 Grand Slam titles and is regarded by many as the greatest player to ever hit the racket, has not played a match since Wimbledon last year.
“As many of you know, the past three years have brought me challenges in the form of injuries and surgeries,” Federer said in a post on Instagram.
“I’ve worked hard to get back into full competitive form. But I also know my body’s capabilities and limitations, and the message has become clear to me recently. I’m 41 years old.”
“I have played more than 1,500 matches in 24 years. Tennis has been more generous to me than I could have ever imagined, and now I must realize when it is time to end my competitive career. has arrived
Next week’s Lever Cup in London will be my last ATP event. I will play more tennis in the future, of course, but not just in the Grand Slams or the Tour.”
Federer, who dominated men’s tennis after winning his first Grand Slam title at Wimbledon in 2003, has been plagued by injuries in recent years.
