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Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer were fierce rivals on court, and as time passed, they became good friends. It all came down to a moment when Federer retired at the Laver Cup 2022. The 20-time Grand Slam champion called it quits after a phenomenal career in front of Nadal, Novak Djokovic and several others.During Nadal's recent appearance on the 316th episode of "YOU QUIZ ON THE BLOCK," the Spaniard reflected on the heart-wrenching moment when a part of him left with Federer's retirement."In some way, he has been an important part of my life because he was my main rival for a long time at the beginning of my career," Nadal said (1:50). "And when he retired, it’s like a part of me, you know, left with him. You know, so, uh, it was quite emotional. It was a big challenge, I think, for all of us to play against each other, and it was a very, very big challenge."Rafael Nadal himself retired two years later at the end of the 2024 season. His final match came in the 2024 Davis Cup Finals in Málaga, Spain, on 19 November 2024. Earlier this year, his retirement was celebrated at Roland Garros and of course, Roger Federer was there along with Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray. All four players dominated tennis for the better part of the last two decades.Rafael Nadal reflects on the evolution of friendship with Roger FedererRafael Nadal became emotional and eventually broke down in tears after Roger Federer played his last match in the 2022 Laver Cup. The duo lost their doubles match against Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe. After the match, Nadal spoke about how their rivalry and friendship evolved over many years.“When I started to be better player, then Roger was always there in front of me … For me he was always the guy to beat,” Nadal said.“Having somebody like Roger that I feel confident to talk about any personal thing, it’s something that … it’s very beautiful after all the things that we shared together and all the important things that we fought for such a long time.”Both Federer and Nadal have left an inspirational mark on tennis for several young stars to come. They have set the benchmark of excellence and were part of the revered 'Big 3' in tennis.
