Nadal ‘super excited’
The Swiss great has not competed in a tennis match for more than a year, and Rafa Nadal is eagerly anticipating his return next month.
Federer has not competed since Wimbledon of last year due to ongoing knee pain in the 41-year-illustrious old’s career.
When he teams up with longtime rival and buddy Nadal to play doubles at the Laver Cup in London in September, the 20-time Grand Slam singles champion is predicted to make his return to the circuit. He will take part in the Swiss indoor event in Basel the following month.
Ahead of the U.S. Open on Friday, Rafael Nadal, the winner of a men’s record 22 Grand Slam titles, told reporters that he was “of course, really eager to see Roger again on court.”
“I hope his health allows him to accomplish that. Let’s see, I guess. I sincerely hope Roger can make it back to the court soon because it has been a very long time. But let’s see.”
After three knee procedures in the previous two years, Federer hasn’t participated in a competitive match since losing to Hubert Hurkacz in the Wimbledon quarterfinals in 2021.
However, after going nearly 14 months without competing, the Swiss has maintained his position at the top of the list of tennis players in the world in terms of pay for the 17th consecutive year, demonstrating his popularity in the sport.
Given his recent knee issues, fans and experts are speculating as to how much longer Federer will continue playing tennis before deciding to retire.
Health and happiness are paramount at this point in his career, don’t you think? said Nadal.
“It will be remarkable if he is fit and content enough to return to the tennis tour. If not, we can just thank him for what he accomplished.
“Roger will undoubtedly stay with us for a while, I’m sure of it. Yes, I’m excited to compete for his team in the Laver Cup.”
