Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal – tennis’ two of the greatest rivals for years – rekindled their golden hue when the duo swapped racquets for tees to play golf at the latter’s academy in Manacor.
Federer visited the academy along with his wife Mirka and the rest of his family last week. Their friendly competition on the golf course is a testament to their boisterous friendship off the court, which has only deepened since they retired from the game. The photo of Federer and Nadal playing golf together in Mallorca went viral on social media ever since.
The former Swiss champion – who was recently spotted at Wimbledon – decided to spend several days on the Spanish island. And Federer gave fans plenty to cheer about when he landed at Nadal’s academy to spend time, collaborate, reflect, and tee off.
Federer retired from tennis three years ago. He won 20 Grand Slams and never spoke of any regrets, having realised that his body was no longer in a position to compete or endure the pain. He had already undergone multiple surgeries. Since his retirement, Federer has avoided exhibition tennis due to his aggravating knee.
Nadal, on the other hand, bade farewell to the game more recently in 2024 after representing Spain in the Davis Cup finals in Malaga. The Spanish legend, too, had been struggling with multiple injuries, which eventually forced him to take a call. Nadal won 22 Grand Slams, but his dream of winning gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics and lifting the French Open again at his favourite venue – Roland Garros – was not fulfilled due to injuries.
But injuries and setbacks are part and parcel of the sport, where things are not always determined by personal wishes. Some things are simply beyond an athlete’s control. Despite their struggles in the twilight of their careers, Federer and Nadal have remained two of the most elegant players in tennis and the fiercest rivals on the court.