Federer: “I hope Nadal can come back very strong next year”

On a trip to China, Federer spoke about Nadal’s impending return to competition in 2024 and about Novak Djokovic’s longevity

Antoine Couvercelle/Panoramic

Jérémy Baudu

December 10, 2023

Officially retired from the courts for just over a year, Roger Federer continues to keep his promise not to be a ghost in the world of tennis. On a trip to China this week, the Swiss gave an interview to CGTN Sports Scene in which he commented on all the latest tennis news.

The20-times Grand Slam champion spoke in particular about the announcement of the return to competition of his greatest rival on the ATP circuit, Rafael Nadal. After a year’s absence, the Spaniard will compete again at the Brisbane International, from December 31 2023 to January 7, 2024.

Federer said he is hoping to see a great Nadal in what could be his final year as a professional.

“I hope Rafa can come back very strong next year,” the former world No 1 told CGTN Sports Scene, before moving on to Novak Djokovic. “I hope Novak can keep on playing for as long as he wants because it’s just really good for the game to have these guys still in the game.”

It WAS FANTASTIC TO SHARE THE COURT WITH THEM
Roger Federer

Federer has shared the stage many times with his two greatest rivals during his career, 50 times against Novak Djokovic (27 to 23 for the Serb) and 40 times against Rafael Nadal (24 to 16 for the Spaniard). During his interview, the Swiss had some very complimentary words for these two champions.

“I can only say the best about them. It was fantastic to share the court with them for so many years. I felt very happy and lucky to play against each of them nearly 40 or 50 times, so I have many memories of great moments, great battles.”