Even in retirement, Roger Federer is considering the possibility of returning to the court, this time alongside longtime rival and friend Rafael Nadal.
The idea of an exhibition tour featuring both stars has captured the attention of tennis fans worldwide.
Last month, Team8 CEO Tony Godsick, who has worked with Federer since 2005, suggested that a joint Federer-Nadal tour could happen.
Now, Federer himself has expressed excitement about the concept in an interview with Swiss newspaper Tages-Anzeiger.
“It would be great if that could be done,” Federer said.
“If we played exhibitions after our careers, we would have more time and wouldn’t have to rush to the next competition. I could imagine combining all of that with a good cause, raising funds for my foundation and inspiring young people there.”
While Federer continues to draw large crowds at events like the recent Laver Cup, Nadal has spent more time away from competitive tennis, often enjoying golf or training at his academy.
Despite that, fans still remember the pair’s record-setting exhibition in South Africa in 2020, as well as earlier shows in Zurich and Madrid that attracted huge audiences.
Staying active and looking ahead
Federer has maintained an active routine, stating, “I played four hours of tennis the other day here in San Francisco, and then LA also another hour and a half before that. So I’ve been playing a lot, so I’m trying to keep in good shape.”
He also believes Nadal would be open to the idea. “And I know that Rafa is also totally open to maybe play some tennis. It sounds terrible, seniors tennis, to us, but maybe we can create a tour, like a Fedal tour or something like that.”
Though speculation has swirled about Federer moving into TV commentary, he clarified that his current focus is on family and mentoring younger players.
“Not at the moment, I’m focusing on my kids; it’s time to be interested in what’s important before they leave home… I’ll be happy to share my advice,” he said.
For now, Federer remains closely connected to tennis through mentoring and exhibition events. But with the possibility of a collaborative tour with Nadal, fans may soon witness another iconic chapter in the careers of these two legends.
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