Rafael Nadal comes up with shocking admission regarding Roger Federer

First Published Mar 27, 2021, 5:51 PM IST

Rafael Nadal of Spain is one of the modern-day greats of tennis. He has won record 20 Grand Slams along with Switzerland’s Roger Federer. Over the years, both have admitted to having shared a close bond, both personally and professionally. However, Nadal has admitted something shocking.

Spanish tennis great and modern-day legend Rafael Nadal is just a Slam away from sealing his greatness. It would make him the player to have won most Slams, while he is currently tied on 20 with Roger Federer of Switzerland.
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As far as the rivalry of both is concerned, it is intense, with the Spaniard having the upper hand 24-16. However, both are said to have maintained a close bond, even personally, keeping their professional rivalry aside.
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Nonetheless, Nadal has recently come up with a shocking admission. According to him, while both have become close over the years, Federer is not really a close friend of his, although both really understand each other and talk quite regularly.
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“We are excellent companions and as the time went on, our relationship improved. We are not close friends. I would not tell him that my knee hurts before facing him! We can call each other anytime and speak about anything. I spoke with him just today!” Nadal was quoted as saying to Vision de Juego.
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As both the legends approach the final stage of their career, they are prioritising events based on their strengths and are not really concerned regarding their rankings. While Nadal is gearing up for the upcoming clay season, as he bids to win his record-extending 14th French Open title, Federer is eyeing a comeback during the grass season, aiming for his record ninth Wimbledon title.
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