They share the men’s Grand Slam record and respectful relationship, but Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer aren’t close friends.
In a Zoom interview with Sergio Rial, president of Santander Brasil, Nadal revealed his relationship with Federer has grown closer throughout the years but reveals “the truth is we’re not close friends.”
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The iconic rivals have joined forces as doubles partners in Laver Cup and often chat on the phone. Nadal said he shares a good relationship with fellow 20-time Grand Slam champion Federer— just not close enough to share personal matters.
“I would say that we are very good companions, especially with the passage of time, our [matches] and our things in common,” Nadal said. “Our relationship has improved. But, for example, if my knee hurts before a match, I won’t tell you.”
Still, the 13-time Roland Garros champion said the pair chat on the phone “at any time”, spoke in recent days and are open to discussing “almost any subject.”
“It is true that we can call ourselves at any time and discuss almost any subject,” Nadal said. “It’s funny that you asked me that question, because I talked to [Federer] today.”
Photo credit: Laver Cup