<p>Rafael Nadal was defeated by Tommy Paul on Wednesday at the Rolex Paris Masters, giving him his biggest career victory. The Spaniard`s title run and Carlos Alcaraz`s exit in the third round would have allowed Rafael Nadal to surpass his compatriot at the top of the rankings, but the American`s 3-6, 7-6(4), 6-1 triumph prevented that. Instead, the American denied the World No. 2 a potential return to the top of the ATP Rankings.</p>

<p>"It`s probably my best win. I was obviously pumped for the matchup because it`s always interesting when you play one of the Big Three. I`ve only played him the second time, but the first time I was so nervous. It was weird, this time I wasn`t really nervous. I was pretty relaxed going onto the court and the day before. I think that played a role. I came out playing pretty well. He got the first set, but I feel like I played pretty well from the jump," Paul said as quoted by ATP. After a sluggish start to the Paris evening session, Paul was down a set and a break before breaking Nadal at love to even the match at 2-2. From that point on, the American took control and used his aggressive baseline game to generate three more break chances before winning the set in the tie-break. Paul took an early lead in the decider thanks to a wayward service game from Nadal, and the American pushed home his advantage after surviving a thrilling game to hold for 3-1. After climbing out of a 0/40 hole on the return, Nadal came within millimetres of tying the set, but a potential winner landed just wide and Nadal`s challenge was unsuccessful. The critical hold was made possible by a successful Paul challenge at deuce that erased a Nadal winner on the same sideline.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/alcaraz-cruises-at-paris-masters-as-medvedev-crashes-out-530696">Alcaraz cruises at Paris Masters as Medvedev crashes out</a></strong></p>

<p>In the following game, Paul increased his lead by scoring a winner and showcasing his quickness to chase down a drop shot and break for the fourth time. The game was over after two hours, and 32 minutes, following a fifth break. In his first ATP Tour match since the US Open and his first as a father, Nadal displayed glimpses of brilliance but was unable to maintain it, especially down the stretch when he appeared out of sorts. When he hunted down a lob in set two, he made a highlight-reel play by choosing a spinning forehand over a tweener and hooking it past a dumbfounded Paul for a passing-shot winner. After the loss, Nadal may focus on the Nitto ATP Finals, which will happen from November 13-20.</p>


Rafael Nadal was defeated by Tommy Paul on Wednesday at the Rolex Paris Masters, giving him his biggest career victory. The Spaniard`s title run and Carlos Alcaraz`s exit in the third round would have allowed Rafael Nadal to surpass his compatriot at the top of the rankings, but the American`s 3-6, 7-6(4), 6-1 triumph prevented that.

Rafael Nadal was defeated by Tommy Paul on Wednesday at the Rolex Paris Masters, giving him his biggest career victory. The Spaniard`s title run and Carlos Alcaraz`s exit in the third round would have allowed Rafael Nadal to surpass his compatriot at the top of the rankings, but the American`s 3-6, 7-6(4), 6-1 triumph prevented that. Instead, the American denied the World No. 2 a potential return to the top of the ATP Rankings. "It`s probably my best win. I was obviously pumped for the matchup because it`s always interesting when you play one of the Big Three. I`ve only played him the second time, but the first time I was so nervous. It was weird, this time I wasn`t really nervous. I was pretty relaxed going onto the court and the day before. I think that played a role. I came out playing pretty well. He got the first set, but I feel like I played pretty well from the jump," Paul said as quoted by ATP. After a sluggish start to the Paris evening session, Paul was down a set and a break before breaking Nadal at love to even the match at 2-2. From that point on, the American took control and used his aggressive baseline game to generate three more break chances before winning the set in the tie-break. Paul took an early lead in the decider thanks to a wayward service game from Nadal, and the American pushed home his advantage after surviving a thrilling game to hold for 3-1. After climbing out of a 0/40 hole on the return, Nadal came within millimetres of tying the set, but a potential winner landed just wide and Nadal`s challenge was unsuccessful. The critical hold was made possible by a successful Paul challenge at deuce that erased a Nadal winner on the same sideline. ALSO READ | Alcaraz cruises at Paris Masters as Medvedev crashes out In the following game, Paul increased his lead by scoring a winner and showcasing his quickness to chase down a drop shot and break for the fourth time. The game was over after two hours, and 32 minutes, following a fifth break. In his first ATP Tour match since the US Open and his first as a father, Nadal displayed glimpses of brilliance but was unable to maintain it, especially down the stretch when he appeared out of sorts. When he hunted down a lob in set two, he made a highlight-reel play by choosing a spinning forehand over a tweener and hooking it past a dumbfounded Paul for a passing-shot winner. After the loss, Nadal may focus on the Nitto ATP Finals, which will happen from November 13-20.

Paris Masters: Tommy Paul pulls off an upset over Rafael Nadal, dents Spaniard's quest to top rankings

<p>Ninth seed Taylor Fritz kept his hopes of qualifying for the season-ending ATP Finals alive when he was among four Americans to record straight sets victories at the Paris Masters on Monday to move into the second round. Fritz, the highest-seeded American in the draw beat Alejandro Davidovich Fokina 7-5 6-2 on the back of a decent first serve despite trailing by a break in the opening set.</p>

<p>Fritz hit only 11 winners to the Spaniard's 20 but he converted five break points to wrap up the match in 90 minutes to beat Davidovich Fokina for the first time in three meetings. "Really happy, he's a tough person to play against. He's got weapons on both sides, he's extremely quick as well, so there's nowhere you can really play with a lot of safety," Fritz said. "He makes a lot of crazy shots and he's beaten me the past two times."</p>

<p>Fritz needs to reach the final to have any chance of sealing a place in the ATP Finals in Turin ahead of Andrey Rublev or Felix Auger-Aliassime, who has won his last three tournaments. "Turin is still in the picture, obviously, but there's not much else I really could have done. I won Tokyo," he added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/iga-swiatek-confused-disappointed-by-simona-haleps-failed-drugs-test-529610">Iga Swiatek confused, disappointed by Simona Halep's failed drugs test</a></strong></p>

<p>"Felix has played really, really well, so he deserves it, but I am going to try to steal his spot this week for sure." Fellow American John Isner can remove one hurdle in the form of Rublev after he booked a place in the second round against the Russian with a 6-4 7-6(3) win over Germany's Oscar Otte. The towering 37-year-old Isner, who finished runner-up to Andy Murray in 2016, fired 19 aces in the contest to wrap things up in 82 minutes.</p>

<p>French wildcard Gilles Simon battled back from a set down to beat Britain's Andy Murray 4-6 7-5 6-3. Frances Tiafoe also moved into the second round without conceding a break point with a 6-4 6-4 win over Lorenzo Sonego while fellow American Maxime Cressy ousted Argentine Diego Schwartzman 6-3 6-3.</p>

<p>In a mixed day for the Italians, Lorenzo Musetti beat Marin Cilic in straight sets to advance but 11th seed Jannik Sinner was knocked out by Swiss qualifier Marc-Andrea Huesler who is ranked 49 places below him. Defending champion Novak Djokovic, world number one Carlos Alcaraz, Rafa Nadal and Daniil Medvedev are among the main seeds who received a bye into the second round.</p>


Ninth seed Taylor Fritz kept his hopes of qualifying for the season-ending ATP Finals alive when he was among four Americans to record straight sets victories at the Paris Masters on Monday to move into the second round.

Ninth seed Taylor Fritz kept his hopes of qualifying for the season-ending ATP Finals alive when he was among four Americans to record straight sets victories at the Paris Masters on Monday to move into the second round. Fritz, the highest-seeded American in the draw beat Alejandro Davidovich Fokina 7-5 6-2 on the back of a decent first serve despite trailing by a break in the opening set. Fritz hit only 11 winners to the Spaniard's 20 but he converted five break points to wrap up the match in 90 minutes to beat Davidovich Fokina for the first time in three meetings. "Really happy, he's a tough person to play against. He's got weapons on both sides, he's extremely quick as well, so there's nowhere you can really play with a lot of safety," Fritz said. "He makes a lot of crazy shots and he's beaten me the past two times." Fritz needs to reach the final to have any chance of sealing a place in the ATP Finals in Turin ahead of Andrey Rublev or Felix Auger-Aliassime, who has won his last three tournaments. "Turin is still in the picture, obviously, but there's not much else I really could have done. I won Tokyo," he added. ALSO READ | Iga Swiatek confused, disappointed by Simona Halep's failed drugs test "Felix has played really, really well, so he deserves it, but I am going to try to steal his spot this week for sure." Fellow American John Isner can remove one hurdle in the form of Rublev after he booked a place in the second round against the Russian with a 6-4 7-6(3) win over Germany's Oscar Otte. The towering 37-year-old Isner, who finished runner-up to Andy Murray in 2016, fired 19 aces in the contest to wrap things up in 82 minutes. French wildcard Gilles Simon battled back from a set down to beat Britain's Andy Murray 4-6 7-5 6-3. Frances Tiafoe also moved into the second round without conceding a break point with a 6-4 6-4 win over Lorenzo Sonego while fellow American Maxime Cressy ousted Argentine Diego Schwartzman 6-3 6-3. In a mixed day for the Italians, Lorenzo Musetti beat Marin Cilic in straight sets to advance but 11th seed Jannik Sinner was knocked out by Swiss qualifier Marc-Andrea Huesler who is ranked 49 places below him. Defending champion Novak Djokovic, world number one Carlos Alcaraz, Rafa Nadal and Daniil Medvedev are among the main seeds who received a bye into the second round.

Ninth-seed Taylor Fritz leads American quartet into Paris Masters second round

<p>Spain reigns at the summit of men's tennis with Carlos Alcaraz holding the world number one spot in the ATP rankings released on Monday with compatriot Rafael Nadal moving back up to second.</p>

<p>Nadal, 36, benefited from Casper Ruud's quarter-final exit in Seoul where he was the top seed, to move ahead of the Norwegian.</p>

<p>Novak Djokovic, winner of his third tournament this season in Tel Aviv, stays seventh but scores 250 precious points in the race for the ATP Finals in Turin, his end-of-season goal.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nick-kyrgios-seeking-to-have-assault-charge-dismissed-on-mental-health-grounds-522237">Nick Kyrgios seeking to have assault charge dismissed on mental health grounds</a></p>

<p>The Serb was competing in his first singles tournament in Israel since claiming a seventh Wimbledon crown in July, and can still earn points this week in the Astana ATP tournament.</p>

<p>Croat Marin Cilic gained two places moving from 16th to 14th, thanks to his reaching the final in Tel Aviv.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rankings:</p>

<p>1. Carlos Alcaraz (ESP) 6740 pts</p>

<p><br />
2. Rafael Nadal (ESP) 5810 (+1)</p>

<p><br />
3. Casper Ruud (NOR) 5645 (-1)</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-no-1-iga-swiatek-to-skip-billie-jean-king-cup-finals-complains-about-scheduling-522068">World no. 1 Iga Swiatek to skip Billie Jean King Cup finals, complains about scheduling</a></p>

<p>4. Daniil Medvedev 5065</p>

<p><br />
5. Alexander Zverev (GER) 5040</p>

<p><br />
6. Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE) 4810</p>

<p><br />
7. Novak Djokovic (SRB) 3820</p>

<p><br />
8. Cameron Norrie (GBR) 3445</p>

<p><br />
9. Andrey Rublev 3345</p>

<p><br />
10. Hubert Hurkacz (POL) 3175 (+1)</p>

<p><br />
11. Taylor Fritz (USA) 3055 (+1)</p>

<p><br />
12. Jannik Sinner (ITA) 3040 (-2)</p>

<p><br />
13. Félix Auger-Aliassime (CAN) 2950</p>

<p><br />
14. Marin Cilic (CRO) 2495 (+2)</p>

<p><br />
15. Pablo Carreño (ESP) 2360 (-1)</p>

<p><br />
16. Matteo Berrettini (ITA) 2360 (-1)</p>

<p><br />
17. Diego Schwartzman (ARG) 2110</p>

<p><br />
18. Karen Khachanov 1990</p>

<p><br />
19. Frances Tiafoe (USA) 1940</p>

<p><br />
20. Nick Kyrgios (AUS) 1780</p>


Spain reigns at the summit of men's tennis with Carlos Alcaraz holding the world number one spot in the ATP rankings released on Monday with compatriot Rafael Nadal moving back up to second.

Spain reigns at the summit of men's tennis with Carlos Alcaraz holding the world number one spot in the ATP rankings released on Monday with compatriot Rafael Nadal moving back up to second. Nadal, 36, benefited from Casper Ruud's quarter-final exit in Seoul where he was the top seed, to move ahead of the Norwegian. Novak Djokovic, winner of his third tournament this season in Tel Aviv, stays seventh but scores 250 precious points in the race for the ATP Finals in Turin, his end-of-season goal. Also Read: Nick Kyrgios seeking to have assault charge dismissed on mental health grounds The Serb was competing in his first singles tournament in Israel since claiming a seventh Wimbledon crown in July, and can still earn points this week in the Astana ATP tournament. Croat Marin Cilic gained two places moving from 16th to 14th, thanks to his reaching the final in Tel Aviv. Rankings: 1. Carlos Alcaraz (ESP) 6740 pts 2. Rafael Nadal (ESP) 5810 (+1) 3. Casper Ruud (NOR) 5645 (-1) Also Read: World no. 1 Iga Swiatek to skip Billie Jean King Cup finals, complains about scheduling 4. Daniil Medvedev 5065 5. Alexander Zverev (GER) 5040 6. Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE) 4810 7. Novak Djokovic (SRB) 3820 8. Cameron Norrie (GBR) 3445 9. Andrey Rublev 3345 10. Hubert Hurkacz (POL) 3175 (+1) 11. Taylor Fritz (USA) 3055 (+1) 12. Jannik Sinner (ITA) 3040 (-2) 13. Félix Auger-Aliassime (CAN) 2950 14. Marin Cilic (CRO) 2495 (+2) 15. Pablo Carreño (ESP) 2360 (-1) 16. Matteo Berrettini (ITA) 2360 (-1) 17. Diego Schwartzman (ARG) 2110 18. Karen Khachanov 1990 19. Frances Tiafoe (USA) 1940 20. Nick Kyrgios (AUS) 1780

Spain reigns on top as Rafael Nadal second behind no.1 Carlos Alcaraz in ATP rankings

<p>Virat Kohli and Roger Federer remain&nbsp;two of the biggest names in world sports. While Kohli is going strong for Team India and will be a key player at the upcoming T20 World Cup for the one-time winners, Federer sent his plethora of fans into a meltdown by retiring from tennis at the end of the recently-held Laver Cup, in London.</p>

<p>Prior to the 2022 edition of the Laver Cup, Federer had announced that he will step aside from the game by end of September and play his last professional match at the mega event in London. Representing Team Europe, the Federer-starrer side lost 8-13 as Team World won the Laver Cup for the first time in the fifth edition.</p>

<p>Talking about Federer's glittering career, he clinched&nbsp;103 singles titles. The 41-year-old Swiss maestro ended&nbsp;with a staggering 20 Grand Slam titles -- third-most in men's tennis -- and wishes poured in from all corners for the legendary player. Kohli, in a video shared by ATP Tour's official Twitter handle, also paid a heartfelt tribute to Federer:</p>

<p>In the video, the former Indian captain said, "Hello Roger, it's a great honour for me to be able to send this video across for you congratulating you on a phenomenal career that has given us so many beautiful moments and memories."</p>

<p>"I personally had the chance to meet you in the Australian Open in 2018, something that I'll never ever forget in my life. One thing that stood out for me even watching you play, was the fact that so many people around the world, not just in the world of tennis got behind you, supporting you and that kind of unity I've never seen for any other individual athlete ever. That is something that cannot be created, that cannot be generated in anyway."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thank you for all the incredible memories, Roger 💫 <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rogerfederer</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RForever?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RForever</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> <a href="https://t.co/VjPtVp9aq6">pic.twitter.com/VjPtVp9aq6</a></p>
— ATP Tour (@atptour) <a href="https://twitter.com/atptour/status/1575284800579112960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 29, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-you-see-someone-you-appreciate-saying-goodbye-rafael-nadal-on-roger-federers-retirement-520199"><strong>'When you see someone you appreciate saying goodbye...' - Rafael Nadal on Roger Federer's retirement</strong></a></p>

<p>"You had that special ability always. It was very evident when we watched you play and the aura you brought on court is unmatchable. And for me, you're always going to be the greatest of all time. I'm sure in the next phase of your life you're going to have as much fun and as much enjoyment as you did on the court. I wish you all the best and your family as well. Take care," Kohli added.</p>

<p>Federer played his last game with longtime rival Rafael Nadal as the two teamed up for Team Europe's doubles clash versus&nbsp;American duo&nbsp;Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe, losing&nbsp;4-6, 7-6 (2), 11-9.</p>

<p>After Federer's retirement match, Nadal was in tears. He recently told COPE, "I'm a sensitive person, when you see someone you appreciate saying goodbye it's hard not to get emotional. It was difficult for it not to happen because of everything that was experienced that night."</p>

<p>The Spaniard also opened up on the two's&nbsp;iconic image where both were shedding tears and mentioned, "It got a little out of hand, and the worst thing is that when I went to the dressing room it happened again. Like everything, the relationship had different stages. It's been a relationship that was good from the beginning but that grown stronger over the years."</p>


Virat Kohli and Roger Federer remain two of the biggest names in world sports. While Kohli is going strong for Team India and will be a key player at the upcoming T20 World Cup for the one-time winners, Federer sent his plethora of fans into a meltdown by retiring from tennis at the end of the recently-held Laver Cup, in London.

Virat Kohli and Roger Federer remain two of the biggest names in world sports. While Kohli is going strong for Team India and will be a key player at the upcoming T20 World Cup for the one-time winners, Federer sent his plethora of fans into a meltdown by retiring from tennis at the end of the recently-held Laver Cup, in London. Prior to the 2022 edition of the Laver Cup, Federer had announced that he will step aside from the game by end of September and play his last professional match at the mega event in London. Representing Team Europe, the Federer-starrer side lost 8-13 as Team World won the Laver Cup for the first time in the fifth edition. Talking about Federer's glittering career, he clinched 103 singles titles. The 41-year-old Swiss maestro ended with a staggering 20 Grand Slam titles -- third-most in men's tennis -- and wishes poured in from all corners for the legendary player. Kohli, in a video shared by ATP Tour's official Twitter handle, also paid a heartfelt tribute to Federer: In the video, the former Indian captain said, "Hello Roger, it's a great honour for me to be able to send this video across for you congratulating you on a phenomenal career that has given us so many beautiful moments and memories." "I personally had the chance to meet you in the Australian Open in 2018, something that I'll never ever forget in my life. One thing that stood out for me even watching you play, was the fact that so many people around the world, not just in the world of tennis got behind you, supporting you and that kind of unity I've never seen for any other individual athlete ever. That is something that cannot be created, that cannot be generated in anyway." Thank you for all the incredible memories, Roger 💫 @rogerfederer | #RForever | @imVkohli pic.twitter.com/VjPtVp9aq6 — ATP Tour (@atptour) September 29, 2022 × ALSO READ | 'When you see someone you appreciate saying goodbye...' - Rafael Nadal on Roger Federer's retirement "You had that special ability always. It was very evident when we watched you play and the aura you brought on court is unmatchable. And for me, you're always going to be the greatest of all time. I'm sure in the next phase of your life you're going to have as much fun and as much enjoyment as you did on the court. I wish you all the best and your family as well. Take care," Kohli added. Federer played his last game with longtime rival Rafael Nadal as the two teamed up for Team Europe's doubles clash versus American duo Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe, losing 4-6, 7-6 (2), 11-9. After Federer's retirement match, Nadal was in tears. He recently told COPE, "I'm a sensitive person, when you see someone you appreciate saying goodbye it's hard not to get emotional. It was difficult for it not to happen because of everything that was experienced that night." The Spaniard also opened up on the two's iconic image where both were shedding tears and mentioned, "It got a little out of hand, and the worst thing is that when I went to the dressing room it happened again. Like everything, the relationship had different stages. It's been a relationship that was good from the beginning but that grown stronger over the years."

Watch: 'For me, you are always going to be GOAT' - Virat Kohli pays heartfelt tribute to Roger Federer

<p>Roger Federer called it quits from tennis after his doubles encounter at the Laver Cup, which concluded on Sunday (September 25) in London. Federer's last match saw him team up with his longtime rival and close friend Rafael Nadal as the two faced American duo&nbsp;Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe, where they lost&nbsp;4-6, 7-6 (2), 11-9.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the match, Federer was in tears and so was his arch-rival Nadal. Over the years, while many have pitted them against each other and termed them as one of the greatest rivals, the two share a great camaraderie and have immense respect for each other. Hence, even Nadal couldn't hold back his tears after Federer's illustrious career came to an end.</p>

<p>Recently, Nadal -- with most Grand Slam titles (22) in men's tennis -- reflected on Federer's retirement and told COPE, "I'm a sensitive person, when you see someone you appreciate saying goodbye it's hard not to get emotional. It was difficult for it not to happen because of everything that was experienced that night."</p>

<p>The Spaniard opined on the duo's iconic photo where both were shedding tears and said, "It got a little out of hand, and the worst thing is that when I went to the dressing room it happened again. Like everything, the relationship had different stages. It's been a relationship that was good from the beginning but that grown stronger over the years."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-roger-federer-leaves-everyone-in-tears-as-he-bids-adieu-to-tennis-519333">In pics| Roger Federer leaves everyone in tears as he bids adieu to tennis</a></strong></p>

<p>Nadal pointed out that his personal relationship with Federer is something he enjoyed more than their professional relationship.&nbsp;"Thanks to that, people who weren't interested in tennis took some interest in our sport. Our way of seeing the rivalry and the world has meant that the personal relationship we've shared has probably been even more important than the professional relationship we've had," Nadal said on the Swiss maestro, who ended with 20 Grand Slam titles in a career spanning over 24 years.</p>

<p>Talking about the Laver Cup 2022 edition, Team World won the title for the first time (in the fifth edition) as they beat Team Europe 13-8. Despite comprising the likes of Federer, Nadal, Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray, Casper Ruud and Stefanos Tsitsipas, Team Europe failed to&nbsp;the former a farewell trophy.</p>


Roger Federer called it quits from tennis after his doubles encounter at the Laver Cup, which concluded on Sunday (September 25) in London. Federer's last match saw him team up with his longtime rival and close friend Rafael Nadal as the two faced American duo Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe, where they lost 4-6, 7-6 (2), 11-9.

Roger Federer called it quits from tennis after his doubles encounter at the Laver Cup, which concluded on Sunday (September 25) in London. Federer's last match saw him team up with his longtime rival and close friend Rafael Nadal as the two faced American duo Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe, where they lost 4-6, 7-6 (2), 11-9. After the match, Federer was in tears and so was his arch-rival Nadal. Over the years, while many have pitted them against each other and termed them as one of the greatest rivals, the two share a great camaraderie and have immense respect for each other. Hence, even Nadal couldn't hold back his tears after Federer's illustrious career came to an end. Recently, Nadal -- with most Grand Slam titles (22) in men's tennis -- reflected on Federer's retirement and told COPE, "I'm a sensitive person, when you see someone you appreciate saying goodbye it's hard not to get emotional. It was difficult for it not to happen because of everything that was experienced that night." The Spaniard opined on the duo's iconic photo where both were shedding tears and said, "It got a little out of hand, and the worst thing is that when I went to the dressing room it happened again. Like everything, the relationship had different stages. It's been a relationship that was good from the beginning but that grown stronger over the years." ALSO READ | In pics| Roger Federer leaves everyone in tears as he bids adieu to tennis Nadal pointed out that his personal relationship with Federer is something he enjoyed more than their professional relationship. "Thanks to that, people who weren't interested in tennis took some interest in our sport. Our way of seeing the rivalry and the world has meant that the personal relationship we've shared has probably been even more important than the professional relationship we've had," Nadal said on the Swiss maestro, who ended with 20 Grand Slam titles in a career spanning over 24 years. Talking about the Laver Cup 2022 edition, Team World won the title for the first time (in the fifth edition) as they beat Team Europe 13-8. Despite comprising the likes of Federer, Nadal, Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray, Casper Ruud and Stefanos Tsitsipas, Team Europe failed to the former a farewell trophy.

'When you see someone you appreciate saying goodbye...' - Rafael Nadal on Roger Federer's retirement

<p>Roger Federer is set to team up with his long-time rival and close friend Rafael Nadal in what will be his last professional tennis match on the opening day of the Laver Cup. The Laver Cup is set to get underway on September 23 and will be played at the O2 Arena in London till September 25. During the course of the three-day event, the likes of Federer, Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray will be part of Team Europe and will give Team World a run for their money.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>As the order of play for the opening day is out, it is time for the Fedal fans to rejoice as Federer-Nadal will reunite and play in Team Europe's doubles face-off versus Team World's&nbsp;American duo Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe. The opening day will also see the likes of Murray, Casper Ruud, Stefanos Tsitsipas in action. Here's the schedule for the opening day of the much-awaited Laver Cup 2022 edition:</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The line-up is set for Day 1 of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LaverCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LaverCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/HnulRs01KX">pic.twitter.com/HnulRs01KX</a></p>
— Laver Cup (@LaverCup) <a href="https://twitter.com/LaverCup/status/1572900497769787393?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-what-is-laver-cup-and-its-format-everything-to-know-about-roger-federers-farewell-event-518663"><strong>EXPLAINED: What is Laver Cup and its format? Everything to know about Roger Federer's farewell event</strong></a></p>

<p>Ahead of the fixtures being out, the Swiss Maestro Federer had told reporters that he wishes to team up with Nadal before saying goodbye to the sport that gave him immense success and respect worldwide. Talking to the reporters at the O2, the 20-time Grand Slam champion said, "Of course, no doubt. I mean, I think it could be quite a unique situation, you know, that if it were to happen."</p>

<p>He further dwelled on his relationship with Spaniard Nadal and pointed out, "For us as well to go through a career that we both have had and to come out on the other side and being able to have a nice relationship I think is maybe a great message as well to not just tennis but sports and maybe even beyond."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Dear Roger,my friend and rival.<br />
I wish this day would have never come. It’s a sad day for me personally and for sports around the world.<br />
It’s been a pleasure but also an honor and privilege to share all these years with you, living so many amazing moments on and off the court 👇🏻</p>
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal/status/1570442868057313285?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/laver-cup-2022-roger-federer-eyes-dream-farewell-alongside-long-time-rival-rafael-nadal-518447">Laver Cup 2022: Roger Federer eyes dream farewell alongside long-time rival Rafael Nadal</a></strong></p>

<p>Nadal had also lavished praise on Federer after the latter's retirement announcement, which came on September 15. In a tweet, Nadal paid a heartfelt tribute to Federer and wrote, "Dear Roger,my friend and rival. I wish this day would have never come," wrote Nadal. "It's a sad day for me personally and for sports around the world. It's been a pleasure but also an honor and privilege to share all these years with you, living so many amazing moments on and off the court. We will have many more moments to share together in the future. For now, I truly wish you all the happiness with your wife, Mirka, your kids, your family and enjoy what's ahead of you."</p>

<p>He added, "We will have many more moments to share together in the future, there are still lots of things to do together, we know that.&nbsp;For now, I truly wish you all the happiness with your wife, Mirka, your kids, your family and enjoy what’s ahead of you. I’ll see you in London&nbsp;<br />
@LaverCup"</p>

<p><strong>Team Europe vs Team World at Laver Cup:</strong></p>

<p><strong>Team Europe:</strong> Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, Casper Ruud, Stefanos Tsitsipas and Andy Murray</p>

<p><strong>Team World:</strong>&nbsp;Felix Auger-Aliassime, Frances Tiafoe, Diego Schwartzman, Alex de Minaur, Taylor Fritz and&nbsp;Jack Sock</p>


Roger Federer is set to team up with his long-time rival and close friend Rafael Nadal in what will be his last professional tennis match on the opening day of the Laver Cup.

Roger Federer is set to team up with his long-time rival and close friend Rafael Nadal in what will be his last professional tennis match on the opening day of the Laver Cup. The Laver Cup is set to get underway on September 23 and will be played at the O2 Arena in London till September 25. During the course of the three-day event, the likes of Federer, Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray will be part of Team Europe and will give Team World a run for their money. As the order of play for the opening day is out, it is time for the Fedal fans to rejoice as Federer-Nadal will reunite and play in Team Europe's doubles face-off versus Team World's American duo Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe. The opening day will also see the likes of Murray, Casper Ruud, Stefanos Tsitsipas in action. Here's the schedule for the opening day of the much-awaited Laver Cup 2022 edition: The line-up is set for Day 1 of #LaverCup pic.twitter.com/HnulRs01KX — Laver Cup (@LaverCup) September 22, 2022 × ALSO READ | EXPLAINED: What is Laver Cup and its format? Everything to know about Roger Federer's farewell event Ahead of the fixtures being out, the Swiss Maestro Federer had told reporters that he wishes to team up with Nadal before saying goodbye to the sport that gave him immense success and respect worldwide. Talking to the reporters at the O2, the 20-time Grand Slam champion said, "Of course, no doubt. I mean, I think it could be quite a unique situation, you know, that if it were to happen." He further dwelled on his relationship with Spaniard Nadal and pointed out, "For us as well to go through a career that we both have had and to come out on the other side and being able to have a nice relationship I think is maybe a great message as well to not just tennis but sports and maybe even beyond." Dear Roger,my friend and rival. I wish this day would have never come. It’s a sad day for me personally and for sports around the world. It’s been a pleasure but also an honor and privilege to share all these years with you, living so many amazing moments on and off the court 👇🏻 — Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) September 15, 2022 × ALSO READ | Laver Cup 2022: Roger Federer eyes dream farewell alongside long-time rival Rafael Nadal Nadal had also lavished praise on Federer after the latter's retirement announcement, which came on September 15. In a tweet, Nadal paid a heartfelt tribute to Federer and wrote, "Dear Roger,my friend and rival. I wish this day would have never come," wrote Nadal. "It's a sad day for me personally and for sports around the world. It's been a pleasure but also an honor and privilege to share all these years with you, living so many amazing moments on and off the court. We will have many more moments to share together in the future. For now, I truly wish you all the happiness with your wife, Mirka, your kids, your family and enjoy what's ahead of you." He added, "We will have many more moments to share together in the future, there are still lots of things to do together, we know that. For now, I truly wish you all the happiness with your wife, Mirka, your kids, your family and enjoy what’s ahead of you. I’ll see you in London @LaverCup" Team Europe vs Team World at Laver Cup: Team Europe: Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, Casper Ruud, Stefanos Tsitsipas and Andy Murray Team World: Felix Auger-Aliassime, Frances Tiafoe, Diego Schwartzman, Alex de Minaur, Taylor Fritz and Jack Sock

'Fedal' reunion confirmed at Laver Cup! Roger Federer to team up with Rafael Nadal in final professional match

<p><span><span><span>As the sun set in London on the evening of September 23rd, the best tennis players on earth walked into the O2 arena to contest for the Laver Cup. As Team Europe took on Team World, all the eyes in the crowd were only on one person, Roger Federer, as he bid goodbye to the game he had helped make great. The Swiss Maestro was playing his final professional tennis match, a doubles match with his lifelong rival and close friend Rafael Nadal, in front of a packed O2 arena bathed in blue and red.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span><span><span>Arguably the two greatest tennis players ever, who have won 42 grand slams between them, were playing as a doubles pair, but that didn’t really matter today. It was all about Federer. It was to celebrate Roger Federer, the athlete, the tennis player, the artist, and most importantly, the man. Roger Federer was the deserving superstar of this beautiful climax. As the crowd showered the Swiss legend with all their love and the commentators repeated his accolades and achievements, Federer and Nadal went about their business on the tennis court, as they have for over two decades. At one point during the match, a spectator who was wearing 11 "RF" t-shirts took off 10 of them like a Matryoshka doll as a tribute to his hero.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span><span><span>More than his trophies and rankings, it was always about how Roger Federer played the game that will be associated forever with him. Through his artistry on the tennis court, Federer brought smiles to millions around the world, and today, as he bid goodbye, it was impossible to wipe the smile off his face in his farewell match. Be it aces, winners, backhands, forehands, volleys, overheads, double faults, or errors, Federer smiled at everything, and the crowd cheered every time he smiled.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span><span><span>It might sound like an occasion where the tennis result did not matter as much, but the competitive spirit of these great athletes always comes to the fore. This was very much evident when a crucial call made by the chair umpire helped Team Europe get a break back in the second set. The ever-lively crowd went a bit sombre for a few minutes after this, realizing maybe there was more to this match.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span><span><span>Federer would always be remembered for playing the game the right way. While he won, he played the right way, and while he lost, he had gone down fighting the right way. When he won, we rejoiced with him, and when he lost, we wept with him. We’d actually never seen him lose unless Rafa Nadal and Novak Djokovic came along and the Big-3 era began. The artist on the green grass of Wimbledon had met the clay courter who’d play every point as his life depended on it and the hard-court hurricane who’d play every point as precisely as possible. The story of Roger Federer would be incomplete without Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic. It was quite fitting and ironic at the same time that Roger, in his final match, was playing with Nadal as his partner while Novak cheered them on from the bench of Team Europe.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span><span><span>In the twelfth game of the second set, Federer rediscovered his one-handed backhand, which had brought him so much success over the years. The sumptuous backhands naturally beckoned the retirement question. However, his elegant strokes had never left him, but it was the knee that had given up. The second set tie-break went against the 42-time grand slam winners, which took the match into the 10-point match tiebreak. After a few moments of disappointment for the crowd and the millions watching back home, on second thought, it meant watching the great man for some more time, one last time. The Americans were playing their part in this momentous show, and it wasn’t to be a fairy tale ending. After promising not to cry throughout the week after the last point, the great man had tears in his eyes as he hugged each of his contemporaries.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span><span><span>After giving his everything for the sport, this was a moment to stand up and applaud a career unwitnessed before. As Roger sobbed uncontrollably, it was surreal to see his greatest rival, Rafa, have tears gushing down his face. It is indeed the end of an era and brings the curtains down on the greatest "rivalry" in the history of sports. "Fedal" redefined tennis for an entire generation, and it felt like the feelings of that entire generation were channeled through Nadal’s emotions on the night. Then the entire Federer family walked out onto the court, and Roger’s wholehearted embrace with his wife Mirka showed how much this sport he was leaving behind meant to the entire family. An unbelievable sporting career and an even better farewell, the likes of which we’ve never seen before, had come to a close.</span></span></span></p>

<p><span><span><span>Thank you, Roger Federer. Thank you for taking tennis to greater heights. Thank you for being an incredible icon of the game. For bringing so much joy to so many of us. For being an absolute gentleman. For painting beautiful canvases with your backhands and forehands. Thank you for everything. It was fitting that the journey ended while Titanium and Viva la Vida played in the background. Roger Federer indeed ruled the world on and off the court, leaving behind a titanium legacy. Farewell, Federer!</span></span></span></p>

<p><em><strong>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)</strong></em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


As the sun set in London on the evening of September 23rd, the best tennis players on earth walked into the O2 arena to contest for the Laver Cup. As Team Europe took on Team World, all the eyes in the crowd were only on one person, Roger Federer, as he bid goodbye to the game he had helped make great.

As the sun set in London on the evening of September 23rd, the best tennis players on earth walked into the O2 arena to contest for the Laver Cup. As Team Europe took on Team World, all the eyes in the crowd were only on one person, Roger Federer, as he bid goodbye to the game he had helped make great. The Swiss Maestro was playing his final professional tennis match, a doubles match with his lifelong rival and close friend Rafael Nadal, in front of a packed O2 arena bathed in blue and red. Arguably the two greatest tennis players ever, who have won 42 grand slams between them, were playing as a doubles pair, but that didn’t really matter today. It was all about Federer. It was to celebrate Roger Federer, the athlete, the tennis player, the artist, and most importantly, the man. Roger Federer was the deserving superstar of this beautiful climax. As the crowd showered the Swiss legend with all their love and the commentators repeated his accolades and achievements, Federer and Nadal went about their business on the tennis court, as they have for over two decades. At one point during the match, a spectator who was wearing 11 "RF" t-shirts took off 10 of them like a Matryoshka doll as a tribute to his hero. More than his trophies and rankings, it was always about how Roger Federer played the game that will be associated forever with him. Through his artistry on the tennis court, Federer brought smiles to millions around the world, and today, as he bid goodbye, it was impossible to wipe the smile off his face in his farewell match. Be it aces, winners, backhands, forehands, volleys, overheads, double faults, or errors, Federer smiled at everything, and the crowd cheered every time he smiled. It might sound like an occasion where the tennis result did not matter as much, but the competitive spirit of these great athletes always comes to the fore. This was very much evident when a crucial call made by the chair umpire helped Team Europe get a break back in the second set. The ever-lively crowd went a bit sombre for a few minutes after this, realizing maybe there was more to this match. Federer would always be remembered for playing the game the right way. While he won, he played the right way, and while he lost, he had gone down fighting the right way. When he won, we rejoiced with him, and when he lost, we wept with him. We’d actually never seen him lose unless Rafa Nadal and Novak Djokovic came along and the Big-3 era began. The artist on the green grass of Wimbledon had met the clay courter who’d play every point as his life depended on it and the hard-court hurricane who’d play every point as precisely as possible. The story of Roger Federer would be incomplete without Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic. It was quite fitting and ironic at the same time that Roger, in his final match, was playing with Nadal as his partner while Novak cheered them on from the bench of Team Europe. In the twelfth game of the second set, Federer rediscovered his one-handed backhand, which had brought him so much success over the years. The sumptuous backhands naturally beckoned the retirement question. However, his elegant strokes had never left him, but it was the knee that had given up. The second set tie-break went against the 42-time grand slam winners, which took the match into the 10-point match tiebreak. After a few moments of disappointment for the crowd and the millions watching back home, on second thought, it meant watching the great man for some more time, one last time. The Americans were playing their part in this momentous show, and it wasn’t to be a fairy tale ending. After promising not to cry throughout the week after the last point, the great man had tears in his eyes as he hugged each of his contemporaries. After giving his everything for the sport, this was a moment to stand up and applaud a career unwitnessed before. As Roger sobbed uncontrollably, it was surreal to see his greatest rival, Rafa, have tears gushing down his face. It is indeed the end of an era and brings the curtains down on the greatest "rivalry" in the history of sports. "Fedal" redefined tennis for an entire generation, and it felt like the feelings of that entire generation were channeled through Nadal’s emotions on the night. Then the entire Federer family walked out onto the court, and Roger’s wholehearted embrace with his wife Mirka showed how much this sport he was leaving behind meant to the entire family. An unbelievable sporting career and an even better farewell, the likes of which we’ve never seen before, had come to a close. Thank you, Roger Federer. Thank you for taking tennis to greater heights. Thank you for being an incredible icon of the game. For bringing so much joy to so many of us. For being an absolute gentleman. For painting beautiful canvases with your backhands and forehands. Thank you for everything. It was fitting that the journey ended while Titanium and Viva la Vida played in the background. Roger Federer indeed ruled the world on and off the court, leaving behind a titanium legacy. Farewell, Federer! (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

The greatest Laver Cup match in history...

<p>Frances Tiafoe returned to haunt Team Europe with a dazzling win over Stefanos Tsitsipas to give Team World their first Laver Cup title on Sunday, ending Roger Federer's hopes of finishing his career by lifting another trophy.</p>

<p>Two days after he and Jack Sock beat Federer and Rafa Nadal in a tearful farewell for the Swiss great at the O2 Arena, American showman Tiafoe saved four match points against Tsitsipas before roaring to a 1-6 7-6(11) 10-8 victory.</p>

<p>Tiafoe's win, worth three points for his team, gave John McEnroe's Team World an unassailable 13-8 lead, having started the day trailing 8-4 and staring at a fifth straight defeat in the event co-founded by Federer.</p>

<p>Team World enjoyed a super Sunday as Canadian young gun Felix Auger-Aliassime stunned 21-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic 6-3 7-6(3). Earlier, Auger-Aliassime had partnered American Sock to a 2-6 6-3 10-8 win against Briton Andy Murray and Italian Matteo Berrettini.</p>

<p>Tsitsipas had the chance to take the match to a deciding singles match, but Tiafoe showed tremendous guts to save four match points in a gripping second-set tiebreak.</p>

<p>The American had the pro-Europe crowd in raptures, and his team mates off their feet, with some extraordinary shot-making in the so-called Laver Breaker.</p>

<p>And when Tsitsipas hit the net on match point, Tiafoe collapsed to the court and was immediately buried under a pile of his red-shirted team mates and captain McEnroe.</p>

<p>"It's an unbelievable feeling," Tiafoe, who reached the U.S. Open semi-final said on court. "Jonny Mac was dropping F bombs all week saying we need to get it down this year.</p>

<p>"It wasn't just me but I showed a lot of heart to get this done. I was getting my ass kicked for a while but I kept going. This is big, we're going to celebrate big tonight."</p>

<p>McEnroe was ecstatic at finally getting his hands on the trophy and getting one over old rival Bjorn Borg who was captain of a Team Europe side that were big favourites.</p>

<p>"No one beats Team World five times in a row," the American said. "Felix stepped up big time.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-was-close-to-retiring-thought-french-open-this-year-might-be-my-last-tournament-rafael-nadal-519556" hreflang="en">I was close to retiring, thought French Open this year might be my last tournament: Rafael Nadal</a></p>

<p>"Frances is prime time, we saw that at the U.S. Open. This is an incredible team event and I'm loving every second of it."</p>

<p>It was not the ending Federer had dreamed of in the last event of his 24-year professional career.</p>

<p>Apart from playing his last-ever competitive match, he had sat at courtside in every match here, offering his words of wisdom and support to his team mates.</p>

<p>"Of course I'm disappointed," 20-time Grand Slam champion Federer told reporters at the end of an emotional weekend.</p>

<p>"I was on the team. Almost lost my voice. My hands hurt from clapping. Told Andy (Murray) in the locker room, I don't like losing. It's not fun.</p>

<p>"This weekend has been all over the place for me. I enjoyed it, but it's unfortunate that we couldn't get the win tonight."</p>

<p>Tiafoe, beaten heavily by Djokovic the previous evening, was making no apologies to Federer for being the pantomime villain.</p>

<p>"Absolutely not. I'm not going to apologise to him. He's got a lot to apologise after the last 24 years after beating everybody on the tour," Tiafoe, clutching a beer, said.</p>

<p>"But I will say thank you for having me in this amazing event, for what he's done for the game. He's a class act. Happy to know him, happy to call him friend, happy to call him a colleague, and best wishes in his second act."</p>

<p>Team World will be aiming to retain their title next year when the event takes place in Vancouver.</p>


Frances Tiafoe returned to haunt Team Europe with a dazzling win over Stefanos Tsitsipas to give Team World their first Laver Cup title on Sunday, ending Roger Federer's hopes of finishing his career by lifting another trophy.

Frances Tiafoe returned to haunt Team Europe with a dazzling win over Stefanos Tsitsipas to give Team World their first Laver Cup title on Sunday, ending Roger Federer's hopes of finishing his career by lifting another trophy. Two days after he and Jack Sock beat Federer and Rafa Nadal in a tearful farewell for the Swiss great at the O2 Arena, American showman Tiafoe saved four match points against Tsitsipas before roaring to a 1-6 7-6(11) 10-8 victory. Tiafoe's win, worth three points for his team, gave John McEnroe's Team World an unassailable 13-8 lead, having started the day trailing 8-4 and staring at a fifth straight defeat in the event co-founded by Federer. Team World enjoyed a super Sunday as Canadian young gun Felix Auger-Aliassime stunned 21-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic 6-3 7-6(3). Earlier, Auger-Aliassime had partnered American Sock to a 2-6 6-3 10-8 win against Briton Andy Murray and Italian Matteo Berrettini. Tsitsipas had the chance to take the match to a deciding singles match, but Tiafoe showed tremendous guts to save four match points in a gripping second-set tiebreak. The American had the pro-Europe crowd in raptures, and his team mates off their feet, with some extraordinary shot-making in the so-called Laver Breaker. And when Tsitsipas hit the net on match point, Tiafoe collapsed to the court and was immediately buried under a pile of his red-shirted team mates and captain McEnroe. "It's an unbelievable feeling," Tiafoe, who reached the U.S. Open semi-final said on court. "Jonny Mac was dropping F bombs all week saying we need to get it down this year. "It wasn't just me but I showed a lot of heart to get this done. I was getting my ass kicked for a while but I kept going. This is big, we're going to celebrate big tonight." McEnroe was ecstatic at finally getting his hands on the trophy and getting one over old rival Bjorn Borg who was captain of a Team Europe side that were big favourites. "No one beats Team World five times in a row," the American said. "Felix stepped up big time. Also read | I was close to retiring, thought French Open this year might be my last tournament: Rafael Nadal "Frances is prime time, we saw that at the U.S. Open. This is an incredible team event and I'm loving every second of it." It was not the ending Federer had dreamed of in the last event of his 24-year professional career. Apart from playing his last-ever competitive match, he had sat at courtside in every match here, offering his words of wisdom and support to his team mates. "Of course I'm disappointed," 20-time Grand Slam champion Federer told reporters at the end of an emotional weekend. "I was on the team. Almost lost my voice. My hands hurt from clapping. Told Andy (Murray) in the locker room, I don't like losing. It's not fun. "This weekend has been all over the place for me. I enjoyed it, but it's unfortunate that we couldn't get the win tonight." Tiafoe, beaten heavily by Djokovic the previous evening, was making no apologies to Federer for being the pantomime villain. "Absolutely not. I'm not going to apologise to him. He's got a lot to apologise after the last 24 years after beating everybody on the tour," Tiafoe, clutching a beer, said. "But I will say thank you for having me in this amazing event, for what he's done for the game. He's a class act. Happy to know him, happy to call him friend, happy to call him a colleague, and best wishes in his second act." Team World will be aiming to retain their title next year when the event takes place in Vancouver.

Tiafoe steals Federer's spotlight to seal first Laver Cup title for Team World

<p>Rafael Nadal was seen in tears alongside his great rival and friend Roger Federer after the Swiss legend's farewell match at the Laver Cup in London on Saturday. There were emotional scenes at the O2 Arena as Federer took the court for one last time before drawing curtains on his legendary career.</p>

<p>Nadal paired up with Federer for Team Europe in the 20-time Grand Slam champion's last game of his career. The Spaniard has now revealed he himself was close to retirement earlier this year and thought French Open would be his last tournament.</p>

<p>The 36-year-old has enjoyed a brilliant season so far having won two Grand Slam titles in 2022. Nadal won the Australian Open at the start of the year before clinching the French Open title after defeating Casper Ruud in the final.&nbsp; He left behind both Federer and Novak Djokovic to take the top spot among male players with the highest number of Grand Slam singles titles in their careers.</p>

<p>However, Nadal revealed he was contemplating a decision about his career during the French Open due to injuries. He has had an injury-laden season and had to pull out of the semi-final at Wimbledon earlier this year due to an abdominal injury.</p>

<p>“I don't know, I'm not at that moment yet. I was close to that time this year. I'm not going to lie to you. During Roland Garros I thought that it might be my last tournament, this is the reality. Although from then on everything went very bad physically, I broke my abdominal twice, at Wimbledon and in New York," Nadal told Spanish&nbsp;outlet AS.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-roger-federer-leaves-everyone-in-tears-as-he-bids-adieu-to-tennis-519333">In pics| Roger Federer leaves everyone in tears as he bids adieu to tennis</a></p>

<p>However, Nadal is not thinking about retirement anymore and is focused on recovering well from his current injuries to return strongly. He remained tight-lipped on where he will be seen in action next but the 22-time Grand Slam champion confirmed he is not going anywhere anytime soon.</p>

<p>"It has been an accumulation of important misfortunes, added to all these personal things. But I'm not in that moment and I don't want to think about that moment. Today, what I want is to get back to normality, for everything to go well with my personal life, which is the top priority, and then organise my life in the right way. Have peace of mind in my personal and professional life,” he explained.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rafael-nadal-could-not-hold-back-tears-as-rival-roger-federer-bids-emotional-farewell-to-tennis-519203">WATCH -&nbsp;Rafael Nadal cannot hold back tears as rival Roger Federer bids emotional farewell to tennis</a></p>

<p>Former world no.1 Nadal had a phenomenal start to the season this year and went on a twenty-match unbeaten streak while clinching two Grand Slam crowns at the Australian Open and French Open. He came close to the final at Wimbledon but had to withdraw due to an injury. Nadal will be looking to end the year on a high and reclaim the top spot in the ATP rankings.</p>


Rafael Nadal was seen in tears alongside his great rival and friend Roger Federer after the Swiss legend's farewell match at the Laver Cup in London on Saturday.

Rafael Nadal was seen in tears alongside his great rival and friend Roger Federer after the Swiss legend's farewell match at the Laver Cup in London on Saturday. There were emotional scenes at the O2 Arena as Federer took the court for one last time before drawing curtains on his legendary career. Nadal paired up with Federer for Team Europe in the 20-time Grand Slam champion's last game of his career. The Spaniard has now revealed he himself was close to retirement earlier this year and thought French Open would be his last tournament. The 36-year-old has enjoyed a brilliant season so far having won two Grand Slam titles in 2022. Nadal won the Australian Open at the start of the year before clinching the French Open title after defeating Casper Ruud in the final. He left behind both Federer and Novak Djokovic to take the top spot among male players with the highest number of Grand Slam singles titles in their careers. However, Nadal revealed he was contemplating a decision about his career during the French Open due to injuries. He has had an injury-laden season and had to pull out of the semi-final at Wimbledon earlier this year due to an abdominal injury. “I don't know, I'm not at that moment yet. I was close to that time this year. I'm not going to lie to you. During Roland Garros I thought that it might be my last tournament, this is the reality. Although from then on everything went very bad physically, I broke my abdominal twice, at Wimbledon and in New York," Nadal told Spanish outlet AS. Also Read: In pics| Roger Federer leaves everyone in tears as he bids adieu to tennis However, Nadal is not thinking about retirement anymore and is focused on recovering well from his current injuries to return strongly. He remained tight-lipped on where he will be seen in action next but the 22-time Grand Slam champion confirmed he is not going anywhere anytime soon. "It has been an accumulation of important misfortunes, added to all these personal things. But I'm not in that moment and I don't want to think about that moment. Today, what I want is to get back to normality, for everything to go well with my personal life, which is the top priority, and then organise my life in the right way. Have peace of mind in my personal and professional life,” he explained. Also Read: WATCH - Rafael Nadal cannot hold back tears as rival Roger Federer bids emotional farewell to tennis Former world no.1 Nadal had a phenomenal start to the season this year and went on a twenty-match unbeaten streak while clinching two Grand Slam crowns at the Australian Open and French Open. He came close to the final at Wimbledon but had to withdraw due to an injury. Nadal will be looking to end the year on a high and reclaim the top spot in the ATP rankings.

I was close to retiring, thought French Open this year might be my last tournament: Rafael Nadal

<p>Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal couldn't hold back their tears in emotional scenes after the Swiss legend's final match of his illustrious career. The duo teamed up for Team Europe against Team World's&nbsp;Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe in what was the last-ever competitive game for Federer.</p>

<p>Though they went down fighting, the defeat hardly mattered as Federer and Nadal put on a show for one final time. Two of the greatest of all time, Federer and Nadal have shared a rivalry like no other&nbsp;in men's tennis. They have won 42 Grand Slam titles between them and have met&nbsp;40 times, pushing each other&nbsp;to be a better version of themselves.</p>

<p>Federer could have only taken the court with one player in his final career appearance and he opted to have his greatest rival and friend Nadal alongside him in the doubles match against Team World at the Laver Cup. The duo fought valiantly but Sock and Tiafoe prevailed in a game that lasted over two hours.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-gives-classy-reponse-to-rival-rafael-nadals-heartfelt-message-for-him-on-retirement-517106">Roger Federer gives classy response to Rafael Nadal's heartfelt message for him on retirement</a></p>

<p>Following his final swansong, Nadal and Federer shared a heartwarming embrace as emotions got the better of them. While Federer was in tears, the cameras also spotted Nadal crying alongside his great rival after being part of his final chapter. It was an emotional moment for the legendary duo, who have given tennis fans some unforgettable moments in the past two decades.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">All the Fedal feelings.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LaverCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LaverCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/WKjhcADFoe">pic.twitter.com/WKjhcADFoe</a></p>
— Laver Cup (@LaverCup) <a href="https://twitter.com/LaverCup/status/1573463216826482694?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Earlier this month, Nadal had taken to social media to pay heartfelt tribute to his eternal rival after Federer confirmed his retirement from tennis. Despite being rivals on the court, Federer and Nadal enjoy a great rapport with each other and are good friends off the court.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/federers-grand-finale-ends-in-defeat-519171">Tears flow as curtains come down on Roger Federer's glittering career</a></p>

<p>“It's been wonderful. And of course playing with Rafa, on the same team, having all the guys here and all the legends, Rocket [Rod Laver], Stefan Edberg - thank you. It is amazing, it really is [to share the court with Rafa and the others]. I didn't want it to feel lonely out there," an emotional Federer said after his final game.</p>

<p>"It felt lonely for a second when they told me to come out one more time, it didn't feel great. But to say goodbye in a team, I always felt I was a team player at heart,” Federer said during his emotional farewell speech on Saturday."</p>


Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal couldn't hold back their tears in emotional scenes after the Swiss legend's final match of his illustrious career. The duo teamed up for Team Europe against Team World's Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe in what was the last-ever competitive game for Federer.

Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal couldn't hold back their tears in emotional scenes after the Swiss legend's final match of his illustrious career. The duo teamed up for Team Europe against Team World's Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe in what was the last-ever competitive game for Federer. Though they went down fighting, the defeat hardly mattered as Federer and Nadal put on a show for one final time. Two of the greatest of all time, Federer and Nadal have shared a rivalry like no other in men's tennis. They have won 42 Grand Slam titles between them and have met 40 times, pushing each other to be a better version of themselves. Federer could have only taken the court with one player in his final career appearance and he opted to have his greatest rival and friend Nadal alongside him in the doubles match against Team World at the Laver Cup. The duo fought valiantly but Sock and Tiafoe prevailed in a game that lasted over two hours. Also Read: Roger Federer gives classy response to Rafael Nadal's heartfelt message for him on retirement Following his final swansong, Nadal and Federer shared a heartwarming embrace as emotions got the better of them. While Federer was in tears, the cameras also spotted Nadal crying alongside his great rival after being part of his final chapter. It was an emotional moment for the legendary duo, who have given tennis fans some unforgettable moments in the past two decades. All the Fedal feelings.#LaverCup pic.twitter.com/WKjhcADFoe — Laver Cup (@LaverCup) September 24, 2022 × Earlier this month, Nadal had taken to social media to pay heartfelt tribute to his eternal rival after Federer confirmed his retirement from tennis. Despite being rivals on the court, Federer and Nadal enjoy a great rapport with each other and are good friends off the court. Also Read: Tears flow as curtains come down on Roger Federer's glittering career “It's been wonderful. And of course playing with Rafa, on the same team, having all the guys here and all the legends, Rocket [Rod Laver], Stefan Edberg - thank you. It is amazing, it really is [to share the court with Rafa and the others]. I didn't want it to feel lonely out there," an emotional Federer said after his final game. "It felt lonely for a second when they told me to come out one more time, it didn't feel great. But to say goodbye in a team, I always felt I was a team player at heart,” Federer said during his emotional farewell speech on Saturday."

WATCH: Rafael Nadal cannot hold back tears as rival Roger Federer bids emotional farewell to tennis

<p>Roger Federer's trophy-laden career ended with defeat on Friday, but for once the result hardly mattered as the Swiss maestro headed into retirement with tears in his eyes and cheers ringing in his ears.</p>

<p>With a sellout crowd of 17,500 at London's O2 Arena willing him on, the 20-time Grand Slam champion returned after more than a year away to play alongside Rafa Nadal, the Spaniard with whom he shared one of tennis's most captivating rivalries.</p>

<p>With the clock past midnight, Federer could have sealed victory in the Laver Cup doubles clash when he served at match point in a tense deciding tiebreak, but it was not to be as Americans Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe ripped up the script.</p>

<p>Sock thumped a forehand winner and sealed a 4-6 7-6 11-9 win for Team World. After a brief moment of stunned silence around the packed arena, the crowd rose to salute the 41-year-old Federer, whose elegance, charisma and sportsmanship has graced tennis and transcended sport during a 24-year career.</p>

<p>Federer produced moments of his trademark magic during a fiercely contested duel and kept his emotions in check.</p>

<p>But the tears flowed afterwards as Ellie Goulding sung while a montage of Federer's feats was projected on the black court.</p>

<p>When he was hugged by wife, Mirka, children Leo, Lenny, Myla and Charlene, and his parents Lynette and Robert, there was hardly a dry eye in the house.</p>

<p>"We'll get through this somehow. It's been a wonderful day. I told the guys I'm happy, not sad," said Federer, who announced last week that this would be his final event after struggling to overcome a knee injury.</p>

<p>"I enjoyed tying my shoelaces one more time, everything was the last time," he added. "Playing with Rafa and having all the greats here, all the legends."</p>

<p>Federer broke down as he thanked his wife.</p>

<p>"She could have stopped me a long, long time ago but she didn't. She kept me going and allowed me to play, so it's amazing - thank you," he said.</p>

<p>Federer's eagerly anticipated final bow came after British favourite Andy Murray had battled against Australian Alex De Minaur for two and a half hours, but lost.</p>

<p>Murray's two Wimbledon titles made him a national sporting icon, but the night was all about Federer - a player who resides in the pantheon of sporting greats with the likes of Pele, Tiger Woods, Michael Jordan and Muhammad Ali.</p>

<p>Even his practice sessions here have been standing-room-only affairs, and an electric atmosphere greeted him as he walked out into the cavernous arena alongside Nadal just after 10pm.</p>

<p>"I've done this thousands of times, but this one feels different. Thank you to everybody who's coming tonight," Federer posted on Twitter earlier in the day.</p>

<p>TEAM EVENT</p>

<p>The crowd included Australian great Laver - the man who inspired Federer to create the team competition being staged in London for the first time.</p>

<p>Loud cheers accompanied Federer and Nadal, or 'Fedal' as they are nicknamed, on to court and The Clash's London Calling boomed out as they warmed up.</p>

<p>An even bigger roar went up when Federer punched away a volley in the opening game - his first competitive shot since defeat by Hubert Hurkacz at Wimbledon last year ended his dream of a record-extending ninth title on Centre Court.</p>

<p>During changeovers video screens showed iconic moments of Federer's career with tributes from Nadal and his mother.</p>

<p>But this was no exhibition match.</p>

<p>American duo Sock and Tiafoe, pantomime villains for the night, tested Federer's reactions with some lusty blows aimed at the Swiss maestro.</p>

<p>Federer was equal to pretty much everything, his silky shot-making and nimble footwork on show despite a long time away from the court.</p>

<p>The iconic pair, with a combined age of 77 and 42 Grand Slam titles between them, edged the opening set by breaking Tiafoe's serve. But the Americans levelled as Federer and Nadal began to fade.</p>

<p>Chants of "Let's go, Roger, let's go" resounded around the packed stands in the championship tiebreak as Federer and Nadal clawed their way towards a victory the occasion demanded.</p>

<p>Even the tennis gods could not intervene to allow Federer one last victory, but nothing could take the gloss off a night to celebrate a player who led tennis into a golden era.</p>

<p>"It still feels like a celebration for me and that's exactly what I hoped for," said Federer, who scaled unprecedented heights and rewrote the record books. "It's been a perfect journey and I would do it all over again."</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></p>


Roger Federer's trophy-laden career ended with defeat on Friday, but for once the result hardly mattered as the Swiss maestro headed into retirement with tears in his eyes and cheers ringing in his ears.

Roger Federer's trophy-laden career ended with defeat on Friday, but for once the result hardly mattered as the Swiss maestro headed into retirement with tears in his eyes and cheers ringing in his ears. With a sellout crowd of 17,500 at London's O2 Arena willing him on, the 20-time Grand Slam champion returned after more than a year away to play alongside Rafa Nadal, the Spaniard with whom he shared one of tennis's most captivating rivalries. With the clock past midnight, Federer could have sealed victory in the Laver Cup doubles clash when he served at match point in a tense deciding tiebreak, but it was not to be as Americans Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe ripped up the script. Sock thumped a forehand winner and sealed a 4-6 7-6 11-9 win for Team World. After a brief moment of stunned silence around the packed arena, the crowd rose to salute the 41-year-old Federer, whose elegance, charisma and sportsmanship has graced tennis and transcended sport during a 24-year career. Federer produced moments of his trademark magic during a fiercely contested duel and kept his emotions in check. But the tears flowed afterwards as Ellie Goulding sung while a montage of Federer's feats was projected on the black court. When he was hugged by wife, Mirka, children Leo, Lenny, Myla and Charlene, and his parents Lynette and Robert, there was hardly a dry eye in the house. "We'll get through this somehow. It's been a wonderful day. I told the guys I'm happy, not sad," said Federer, who announced last week that this would be his final event after struggling to overcome a knee injury. "I enjoyed tying my shoelaces one more time, everything was the last time," he added. "Playing with Rafa and having all the greats here, all the legends." Federer broke down as he thanked his wife. "She could have stopped me a long, long time ago but she didn't. She kept me going and allowed me to play, so it's amazing - thank you," he said. Federer's eagerly anticipated final bow came after British favourite Andy Murray had battled against Australian Alex De Minaur for two and a half hours, but lost. Murray's two Wimbledon titles made him a national sporting icon, but the night was all about Federer - a player who resides in the pantheon of sporting greats with the likes of Pele, Tiger Woods, Michael Jordan and Muhammad Ali. Even his practice sessions here have been standing-room-only affairs, and an electric atmosphere greeted him as he walked out into the cavernous arena alongside Nadal just after 10pm. "I've done this thousands of times, but this one feels different. Thank you to everybody who's coming tonight," Federer posted on Twitter earlier in the day. TEAM EVENT The crowd included Australian great Laver - the man who inspired Federer to create the team competition being staged in London for the first time. Loud cheers accompanied Federer and Nadal, or 'Fedal' as they are nicknamed, on to court and The Clash's London Calling boomed out as they warmed up. An even bigger roar went up when Federer punched away a volley in the opening game - his first competitive shot since defeat by Hubert Hurkacz at Wimbledon last year ended his dream of a record-extending ninth title on Centre Court. During changeovers video screens showed iconic moments of Federer's career with tributes from Nadal and his mother. But this was no exhibition match. American duo Sock and Tiafoe, pantomime villains for the night, tested Federer's reactions with some lusty blows aimed at the Swiss maestro. Federer was equal to pretty much everything, his silky shot-making and nimble footwork on show despite a long time away from the court. The iconic pair, with a combined age of 77 and 42 Grand Slam titles between them, edged the opening set by breaking Tiafoe's serve. But the Americans levelled as Federer and Nadal began to fade. Chants of "Let's go, Roger, let's go" resounded around the packed stands in the championship tiebreak as Federer and Nadal clawed their way towards a victory the occasion demanded. Even the tennis gods could not intervene to allow Federer one last victory, but nothing could take the gloss off a night to celebrate a player who led tennis into a golden era. "It still feels like a celebration for me and that's exactly what I hoped for," said Federer, who scaled unprecedented heights and rewrote the record books. "It's been a perfect journey and I would do it all over again." WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Tears flow as curtains come down on Roger Federer's glittering career

<p>Rafa Nadal has pulled out of the remainder of the Laver Cup due to personal reasons after partnering friend and rival Roger Federer in a doubles match that brought down the curtain on the Swiss great's glittering tennis career.</p>

<p>Pictures and videos of Federer and Nadal - who shared one of tennis's most enthralling rivalries - sitting on a chair and crying after combining for Team Europe in a doubles defeat at London's O2 Arena on Friday went viral on social media.</p>

<p>The Spaniard, who has won a men's record 22 Grand Slam titles, later said that an important part of him was also leaving the Tour with the retirement of Federer.</p>

<p>"Rafael Nadal withdrew for personal reasons. He will be replaced by Cameron Norrie," the organisers of the tournament said on Saturday.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-roger-federer-leaves-everyone-in-tears-as-he-bids-adieu-to-tennis-519333">In pics| Roger Federer leaves everyone in tears as he bids adieu to tennis</a></p>

<p>Nadal is also expecting his first child with wife Mery Perello soon but made the trip to London to play alongside Federer in the Swiss maestro's final professional outing.</p>

<p>Federer was replaced by Italian Matteo Berrettini in Team Europe, who were tied at 2-2 with Team World after the opening day's matches.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/most-beautiful-sporting-picture-ever-virat-kohli-on-image-of-rafael-nadal-crying-alongside-roger-federer-519233">'Most beautiful sporting picture ever': Virat Kohli on image of Rafael Nadal crying alongside Roger Federer</a></p>

<p>Novak Djokovic will also return to action on Saturday for the first time since winning his 21st major singles title at Wimbledon last month. He is scheduled to play American Frances Tiafoe and then in the doubles with Berrettini.</p>


Rafa Nadal has pulled out of the remainder of the Laver Cup due to personal reasons after partnering friend and rival Roger Federer in a doubles match that brought down the curtain on the Swiss great's glittering tennis career.

Rafa Nadal has pulled out of the remainder of the Laver Cup due to personal reasons after partnering friend and rival Roger Federer in a doubles match that brought down the curtain on the Swiss great's glittering tennis career. Pictures and videos of Federer and Nadal - who shared one of tennis's most enthralling rivalries - sitting on a chair and crying after combining for Team Europe in a doubles defeat at London's O2 Arena on Friday went viral on social media. The Spaniard, who has won a men's record 22 Grand Slam titles, later said that an important part of him was also leaving the Tour with the retirement of Federer. "Rafael Nadal withdrew for personal reasons. He will be replaced by Cameron Norrie," the organisers of the tournament said on Saturday. Also Read: In pics| Roger Federer leaves everyone in tears as he bids adieu to tennis Nadal is also expecting his first child with wife Mery Perello soon but made the trip to London to play alongside Federer in the Swiss maestro's final professional outing. Federer was replaced by Italian Matteo Berrettini in Team Europe, who were tied at 2-2 with Team World after the opening day's matches. Also Read: 'Most beautiful sporting picture ever': Virat Kohli on image of Rafael Nadal crying alongside Roger Federer Novak Djokovic will also return to action on Saturday for the first time since winning his 21st major singles title at Wimbledon last month. He is scheduled to play American Frances Tiafoe and then in the doubles with Berrettini.

Rafael Nadal pulls out of Laver Cup after teaming up with Roger Federer in his final match

In pics| Roger Federer leaves everyone in tears as he bids adieu to tennis

<p>Roger Federer broke down during his farewell speech after bringing curtains down on his illustrious career with his final appearance at the Laver Cup in London on Saturday. It was not a fairytale ending for the Swiss legend as he lost his final match against the pair of Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe while playing alongside his great friend and rival Rafael Nadal in a doubles match at the Laver Cup.</p>

<p>However, it was all about Federer as he bid an emotional farewell to the game following his 'Last Dance'. One of the greatest of all time, Federer burst into tears after the match as he shared an emotional embrace with Nadal and thanked the rest of his teammates before arriving for his farewell speech at the O2 Arena.</p>

<p>The 20-time Grand Slam champion was interviewed by former World No. 1 Jim Courier on the court, who went on to ask him what it was like to play the final game of his career. Holding back tears, Federer said he was happy, not sad before thanking all those who were present to attend his final game.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rafael-nadal-could-not-hold-back-tears-as-rival-roger-federer-bids-emotional-farewell-to-tennis-519203">WATCH: Rafael Nadal cannot&nbsp;hold back tears as rival Roger Federer bids emotional farewell to tennis</a></p>

<p>"Look, it’s been a wonderful day. I told the guys, 'I’m happy. I’m not sad.' So, it feels great to be here," Federer said tearing up.</p>

<p>"I enjoyed tying my shoes one more time and everything was the last time. Funny enough with all the matches and having the guys and being here (amid) fans, family, friends... didn’t feel the stress so much even though I did think like something was going to go (wrong) - pop a calf or block a back or something in the match."</p>

<p>"I am so happy I made it through and the match was great. I couldn’t be happier. It’s been wonderful.&nbsp;And of course, playing with Rafa (Rafael Nadal) on the same team and having the guys, everybody here, all the legends - Rocket (Rod Laver), Stefan Edberg, thank you," he went on.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">If there's one thing you watch today, make it this.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LaverCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LaverCup</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rogerfederer</a> <a href="https://t.co/Ks9JqEeR6B">pic.twitter.com/Ks9JqEeR6B</a></p>
— Laver Cup (@LaverCup) <a href="https://twitter.com/LaverCup/status/1573460606274895890?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Federer dominated Grand Slams across the globe and was a phenomenon for the most part of his career. He won eight Wimbledon, six Australian Open, five US Open and one French Open titles in a career spanning over two decades. The Swiss ace described his tennis journey as a 'perfect' one and said he would like to do it all over again if given a chance.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/federers-grand-finale-ends-in-defeat-519171">Tears flow as curtains come down on Roger Federer's glittering career</a></p>

<p>"It was never supposed to be that way. I was just happy to play tennis and spend time with my friends, really. And then I ended up here. It’s been a perfect journey. I would do it all over again," Federer said in his farewell speech while shedding tears.</p>

<p>"It’s been great. It’s been so much fun. It’s been amazing. Thank you, everybody. I’ve had so many people cheer me on, and you guys here tonight mean&nbsp;the world."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Saying so long while soaking it in.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LaverCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LaverCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/dnIAIF7c07">pic.twitter.com/dnIAIF7c07</a></p>
— Laver Cup (@LaverCup) <a href="https://twitter.com/LaverCup/status/1573462000709009422?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Federer also broke down while thanking his wife&nbsp;Mirka for her support throughout his career. The Swiss legend was joined by his wife, four kids and his parents for his final game at the Laver Cup. It turned out to be an emotional affair at the end with Federer's rival Rafael Nadal also in tears after being part of his greatest rival and friend's final chapter.</p>


Roger Federer broke down during his farewell speech after bringing curtains down on his illustrious career with his final appearance at the Laver Cup in London on Saturday.

Roger Federer broke down during his farewell speech after bringing curtains down on his illustrious career with his final appearance at the Laver Cup in London on Saturday. It was not a fairytale ending for the Swiss legend as he lost his final match against the pair of Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe while playing alongside his great friend and rival Rafael Nadal in a doubles match at the Laver Cup. However, it was all about Federer as he bid an emotional farewell to the game following his 'Last Dance'. One of the greatest of all time, Federer burst into tears after the match as he shared an emotional embrace with Nadal and thanked the rest of his teammates before arriving for his farewell speech at the O2 Arena. The 20-time Grand Slam champion was interviewed by former World No. 1 Jim Courier on the court, who went on to ask him what it was like to play the final game of his career. Holding back tears, Federer said he was happy, not sad before thanking all those who were present to attend his final game. Also Read: WATCH: Rafael Nadal cannot hold back tears as rival Roger Federer bids emotional farewell to tennis "Look, it’s been a wonderful day. I told the guys, 'I’m happy. I’m not sad.' So, it feels great to be here," Federer said tearing up. "I enjoyed tying my shoes one more time and everything was the last time. Funny enough with all the matches and having the guys and being here (amid) fans, family, friends... didn’t feel the stress so much even though I did think like something was going to go (wrong) - pop a calf or block a back or something in the match." "I am so happy I made it through and the match was great. I couldn’t be happier. It’s been wonderful. And of course, playing with Rafa (Rafael Nadal) on the same team and having the guys, everybody here, all the legends - Rocket (Rod Laver), Stefan Edberg, thank you," he went on. If there's one thing you watch today, make it this.#LaverCup | @rogerfederer pic.twitter.com/Ks9JqEeR6B — Laver Cup (@LaverCup) September 23, 2022 × Federer dominated Grand Slams across the globe and was a phenomenon for the most part of his career. He won eight Wimbledon, six Australian Open, five US Open and one French Open titles in a career spanning over two decades. The Swiss ace described his tennis journey as a 'perfect' one and said he would like to do it all over again if given a chance. Also Read: Tears flow as curtains come down on Roger Federer's glittering career "It was never supposed to be that way. I was just happy to play tennis and spend time with my friends, really. And then I ended up here. It’s been a perfect journey. I would do it all over again," Federer said in his farewell speech while shedding tears. "It’s been great. It’s been so much fun. It’s been amazing. Thank you, everybody. I’ve had so many people cheer me on, and you guys here tonight mean the world." Saying so long while soaking it in.#LaverCup pic.twitter.com/dnIAIF7c07 — Laver Cup (@LaverCup) September 23, 2022 × Federer also broke down while thanking his wife Mirka for her support throughout his career. The Swiss legend was joined by his wife, four kids and his parents for his final game at the Laver Cup. It turned out to be an emotional affair at the end with Federer's rival Rafael Nadal also in tears after being part of his greatest rival and friend's final chapter.

It has been a perfect journey, I would do it all over again: Roger Federer breaks down in his farewell speech

<p>Indian cricket team superstar Virat Kohli shared a picture of Rafael Nadal crying alongside his rival Roger Federer at his final career match calling it the most beautiful sporting picture he has ever seen. Federer teamed up with great rival and friend Nadal in the final match of his decorated career at the Laver Cup in London.</p>

<p>While it was not a fairytale ending for the Swiss legend as the legendary duo lost in a doubles game at the Laver Cup against Team World's&nbsp;Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe, it was more than just the result for Federer. The 20-time Grand Slam champion, who had announced his retirement last week, was in tears at the end of the game.</p>

<p>Nadal, who shared an epic rivalry with the Swiss ace,&nbsp;got emotional as well and couldn't hold back his tears after Federer's final match. In emotional scenes at the packed O2 Arena in London, both Nadal and Federer were seen crying alongside each other.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-has-been-a-perfect-journey-i-would-do-it-all-over-again-roger-federer-breaks-down-in-his-farewell-speech-519213">It has been a perfect journey, I would do it all over again: Federer breaks down in his farewell speech</a></p>

<p>Kohli took to Instagram to share a picture of the duo crying together and wrote why it is the most beautiful sporting picture for him.</p>

<p>"Who thought rivals can feel like this towards each other. That’s the beauty of sport. This is the most beautiful sporting picture ever for me. When your companions cry for you, you know what you’ve been able to do with your god given talent. Nothing but respect for these 2," Kohli wrote.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Ci4QnCUt_gM/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Ci4QnCUt_gM/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Ci4QnCUt_gM/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Ci4QnCUt_gM/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Virat Kohli (@virat.kohli)</a></p>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Nadal and Federer came up against each other 40 times, winning a stunning 42 Grand Slam titles between them. While Federer has drawn curtains on his glorious career after winning 20 Grand Slam titles, Nadal remains the most successful player in men's tennis history with 22 Grand Slam titles under his belt.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rafael-nadal-could-not-hold-back-tears-as-rival-roger-federer-bids-emotional-farewell-to-tennis-519203">WATCH: Rafael Nadal cannot hold back tears as rival Roger Federer bids emotional farewell to tennis</a></p>

<p>Speaking after Federer's farewell match, Nadal said it felt like an important part of his life is also leaving with the Swiss legend.</p>

<p>"For me, (it) has been a huge honour to be a part of this amazing moment of the history of our sport, and at the same time a lot of years sharing a lot of things together," Nadal said as he paid tribute to his long-time rival.</p>

<p>"When Roger leaves the tour, yeah, an important part of my life is leaving too because all the moments he has been next or in front me in important moments of my life. So has been emotional (to) see the family, see all the people. Yeah, difficult to describe. But, yeah, amazing moment," the Spaniard added.</p>


Indian cricket team superstar Virat Kohli shared a picture of Rafael Nadal crying alongside his rival Roger Federer at his final career match calling it the most beautiful sporting picture he has ever seen.

Indian cricket team superstar Virat Kohli shared a picture of Rafael Nadal crying alongside his rival Roger Federer at his final career match calling it the most beautiful sporting picture he has ever seen. Federer teamed up with great rival and friend Nadal in the final match of his decorated career at the Laver Cup in London. While it was not a fairytale ending for the Swiss legend as the legendary duo lost in a doubles game at the Laver Cup against Team World's Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe, it was more than just the result for Federer. The 20-time Grand Slam champion, who had announced his retirement last week, was in tears at the end of the game. Nadal, who shared an epic rivalry with the Swiss ace, got emotional as well and couldn't hold back his tears after Federer's final match. In emotional scenes at the packed O2 Arena in London, both Nadal and Federer were seen crying alongside each other. Also Read: It has been a perfect journey, I would do it all over again: Federer breaks down in his farewell speech Kohli took to Instagram to share a picture of the duo crying together and wrote why it is the most beautiful sporting picture for him. "Who thought rivals can feel like this towards each other. That’s the beauty of sport. This is the most beautiful sporting picture ever for me. When your companions cry for you, you know what you’ve been able to do with your god given talent. Nothing but respect for these 2," Kohli wrote. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Virat Kohli (@virat.kohli) × Nadal and Federer came up against each other 40 times, winning a stunning 42 Grand Slam titles between them. While Federer has drawn curtains on his glorious career after winning 20 Grand Slam titles, Nadal remains the most successful player in men's tennis history with 22 Grand Slam titles under his belt. Also Read: WATCH: Rafael Nadal cannot hold back tears as rival Roger Federer bids emotional farewell to tennis Speaking after Federer's farewell match, Nadal said it felt like an important part of his life is also leaving with the Swiss legend. "For me, (it) has been a huge honour to be a part of this amazing moment of the history of our sport, and at the same time a lot of years sharing a lot of things together," Nadal said as he paid tribute to his long-time rival. "When Roger leaves the tour, yeah, an important part of my life is leaving too because all the moments he has been next or in front me in important moments of my life. So has been emotional (to) see the family, see all the people. Yeah, difficult to describe. But, yeah, amazing moment," the Spaniard added.

'Most beautiful sporting picture ever': Virat Kohli on image of Rafael Nadal crying alongside Roger Federer

<p>The dreaded day has finally arrived when Roger Federer will play his last professional match. On Friday (September 23), but in the wee hours as per IST, the former world number one and Swiss maestro Federer will take on the court for his final competitive match in the opening day of the Laver Cup. The Laver Cup, which will see Team Europe take on Team World, will get underway on September 23 and conclude on September 25 (Sunday). During the three-day mega event in London, all eyes will be on Federer as it will be his swansong from tennis.</p>

<p>Much to the delight of the Fedal fans, Federer will team up with his long-time rival and friend Rafael Nadal in his final match, where the two legends will square off with&nbsp;Team World's&nbsp;American duo Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe at the O2 Arena, London. It is expected to be a thrilling atmosphere as the two will be eager to give fans plenty to cheer for before Federer calls it quits.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Here are the live streaming details of the Laver Cup 2022 match featuring Fedal:</strong></p>

<p><strong>Where is the 2022 Laver Cup being held?</strong></p>

<p>The 2022 Laver Cup is taking place&nbsp;at the The O2 Arena, in London.</p>

<p><strong>At what time will the Roger Federer-Rafael Nadal doubles match take place in the 2022 Laver Cup?</strong></p>

<p>Fedal's doubles match at the 2022 Laver Cup will begin at 12:50 AM (September 24) IST.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sampras-pays-heartfelt-tribute-to-roger-federer-as-swiss-maestro-gears-up-for-farewell-at-laver-cup-watch-518953"><strong>Sampras pays heartfelt tribute to Roger Federer as Swiss maestro gears up for farewell at Laver Cup - WATCH</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>Which TV channel in India&nbsp;will broadcast the Fedal match at the 2022 Laver Cup?</strong></p>

<p>The much-awaited Fedal match at the 2022 Laver Cup will have a live broadcast on Sony Sports Network in India.</p>

<p><strong>How can one watch live streaming of the Fedal match at 2022 Laver Cup in India?</strong></p>

<p>The 2022 Laver Cup can be live streamed in the country on SonyLiv app and website.</p>

<p><strong>What are the teams for Laver Cup 2022?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Team Europe:</strong>&nbsp;Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Stefanos Tsitsipas, Andy Murray, Casper Ruud.</p>

<p><strong>Team World:&nbsp;</strong>Alex de Minaur, Felix Auger-Aliassime, Frances Tiafoe, Taylor Fritz, Jack Sock, Diego Schwartzman.</p>


The dreaded day has finally arrived when Roger Federer will play his last professional match. On Friday (September 23), but in the wee hours as per IST, the former world number one and Swiss maestro Federer will take on the court for his final competitive match in the opening day of the Laver Cup.

The dreaded day has finally arrived when Roger Federer will play his last professional match. On Friday (September 23), but in the wee hours as per IST, the former world number one and Swiss maestro Federer will take on the court for his final competitive match in the opening day of the Laver Cup. The Laver Cup, which will see Team Europe take on Team World, will get underway on September 23 and conclude on September 25 (Sunday). During the three-day mega event in London, all eyes will be on Federer as it will be his swansong from tennis. Much to the delight of the Fedal fans, Federer will team up with his long-time rival and friend Rafael Nadal in his final match, where the two legends will square off with Team World's American duo Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe at the O2 Arena, London. It is expected to be a thrilling atmosphere as the two will be eager to give fans plenty to cheer for before Federer calls it quits. Here are the live streaming details of the Laver Cup 2022 match featuring Fedal: Where is the 2022 Laver Cup being held? The 2022 Laver Cup is taking place at the The O2 Arena, in London. At what time will the Roger Federer-Rafael Nadal doubles match take place in the 2022 Laver Cup? Fedal's doubles match at the 2022 Laver Cup will begin at 12:50 AM (September 24) IST. ALSO READ | Sampras pays heartfelt tribute to Roger Federer as Swiss maestro gears up for farewell at Laver Cup - WATCH Which TV channel in India will broadcast the Fedal match at the 2022 Laver Cup? The much-awaited Fedal match at the 2022 Laver Cup will have a live broadcast on Sony Sports Network in India. How can one watch live streaming of the Fedal match at 2022 Laver Cup in India? The 2022 Laver Cup can be live streamed in the country on SonyLiv app and website. What are the teams for Laver Cup 2022? Team Europe: Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Stefanos Tsitsipas, Andy Murray, Casper Ruud. Team World: Alex de Minaur, Felix Auger-Aliassime, Frances Tiafoe, Taylor Fritz, Jack Sock, Diego Schwartzman.

Laver Cup 2022, Roger Federer's farewell match: When and where to watch Fedal's doubles match in India?

<p>Roger Federer is gearing up for his swansong from tennis as he will appear for Team Europe at the Laver Cup 2022 edition, which gets underway on September 23 (Friday). Federer will spearhead Team Europe, who has won every single edition of the Laver Cup so far, and team up with his long-time rival and close friend Rafael Nadal in the doubles face-off versus&nbsp;Team World's&nbsp;American duo Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe later in the opening day.</p>

<p>Ahead of his farewell from tennis, Federer received a heartfelt message from&nbsp;14-time major singles champion Pete Sampras. The American lauded Federer and recalled his Wimbledon 2001 defeat versus the Swiss maestro. He further applauded the former world number one for managing his body so well throughout his illustrious career and highlighted his&nbsp;sacrifices to become an ultimate professional.</p>

<p>"When I first played you, you were 19 years old, an up-and-coming player and people were talking about you. And we had a great battle on the Centre Court of Wimbledon. And you took me down," Sampras shared in a video posted by the ATP Tour.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fedal-reunion-confirmed-roger-federer-teams-up-with-rafael-nadal-in-final-professional-match-at-laver-cup-518720">'Fedal' reunion confirmed at Laver Cup! Roger Federer to team up with Rafael Nadal in final professional match</a></strong></p>

<p>"Tough five-setter," recalled Sampras, who had clinched the last four titles at the Championships. He added, "And I just remember walking off the court, feeling like I met my match. Little did I know, 20 years later, that you would have 20 majors, be number one for years, dominate our sport - basically do it all."</p>

<p>Sampras termed Federer as "truly a special player" and stated, "You're going to be missed in our game."</p>

<p>Highlighting the sacrifices he made in his journey, Sampras pointed out,&nbsp;"I know through those 20 years, that you sacrificed, dedicated yourself, got your body right, I don’t think people saw that side of you because you made the game look so easy. But I know you are the ultimate professional when it comes to preparing. I’ve admired the way you handled it all. From the very beginning to the very end. We are all going to be sad to see you go. But it’s part of sports. It’s not easy. I want to wish you a great retirement."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">From one legend of the game to another 🤝 <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rogerfederer</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RForever?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RForever</a> <a href="https://t.co/j36ugRxF2x">pic.twitter.com/j36ugRxF2x</a></p>
— ATP Tour (@atptour) <a href="https://twitter.com/atptour/status/1572966356009500676?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Fans from across the globe will be glued to their television sets to watch Federer and Nadal's reunion as the two of the greatest players in the sport will pair up on Friday evening at the Laver Cup. Nadal will aim to give a fitting farewell to his arch-rival and friend, who is only taking part in doubles during the fifth edition of the tournament.&nbsp;</p>


Roger Federer is gearing up for his swansong from tennis as he will appear for Team Europe at the Laver Cup 2022 edition, which gets underway on September 23 (Friday).

Roger Federer is gearing up for his swansong from tennis as he will appear for Team Europe at the Laver Cup 2022 edition, which gets underway on September 23 (Friday). Federer will spearhead Team Europe, who has won every single edition of the Laver Cup so far, and team up with his long-time rival and close friend Rafael Nadal in the doubles face-off versus Team World's American duo Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe later in the opening day. Ahead of his farewell from tennis, Federer received a heartfelt message from 14-time major singles champion Pete Sampras. The American lauded Federer and recalled his Wimbledon 2001 defeat versus the Swiss maestro. He further applauded the former world number one for managing his body so well throughout his illustrious career and highlighted his sacrifices to become an ultimate professional. "When I first played you, you were 19 years old, an up-and-coming player and people were talking about you. And we had a great battle on the Centre Court of Wimbledon. And you took me down," Sampras shared in a video posted by the ATP Tour. ALSO READ | 'Fedal' reunion confirmed at Laver Cup! Roger Federer to team up with Rafael Nadal in final professional match "Tough five-setter," recalled Sampras, who had clinched the last four titles at the Championships. He added, "And I just remember walking off the court, feeling like I met my match. Little did I know, 20 years later, that you would have 20 majors, be number one for years, dominate our sport - basically do it all." Sampras termed Federer as "truly a special player" and stated, "You're going to be missed in our game." Highlighting the sacrifices he made in his journey, Sampras pointed out, "I know through those 20 years, that you sacrificed, dedicated yourself, got your body right, I don’t think people saw that side of you because you made the game look so easy. But I know you are the ultimate professional when it comes to preparing. I’ve admired the way you handled it all. From the very beginning to the very end. We are all going to be sad to see you go. But it’s part of sports. It’s not easy. I want to wish you a great retirement." From one legend of the game to another 🤝 @rogerfederer | #RForever pic.twitter.com/j36ugRxF2x — ATP Tour (@atptour) September 22, 2022 × Fans from across the globe will be glued to their television sets to watch Federer and Nadal's reunion as the two of the greatest players in the sport will pair up on Friday evening at the Laver Cup. Nadal will aim to give a fitting farewell to his arch-rival and friend, who is only taking part in doubles during the fifth edition of the tournament.

Sampras pays heartfelt tribute to Roger Federer as Swiss maestro gears up for farewell at Laver Cup - WATCH

<p>Last week, Roger Federer shocked one and all by announcing that he will step aside from tennis post the Laver Cup. The Laver Cup 2022 edition will kick off on September 23 and will be held at the&nbsp;O2 Arena in London till September 25 (Sunday). Hence, many will be glued to their TV sets to see Federer in action for one last time as he is set to bid farewell to the game; bringing an end to his illustrious journey where he won 103 singles titles in a career spanning over 24 years.</p>

<p>The Laver Cup is always a keenly-awaited tournament as it gives fans an opportunity to witness some of the biggest names in men's tennis to play with each other. Team Europe, who have won all the editions so far, will feature the likes of Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, Casper Ruud, Stefanos Tsitsipas and Andy Murray as they will take on Team World in the three-day event. Team World, on the other hand, will feature&nbsp;Felix Auger-Aliassime, Frances Tiafoe, Diego Schwartzman, Alex de Minaur, Taylor Fritz and&nbsp;Jack Sock.</p>

<p id="4"><strong>When is the Laver Cup?</strong></p>

<p id="5">The Laver Cup will get underway on September 23, Friday and will conclude on September 25 (Sunday).</p>

<p id="6"><strong>How does the Laver Cup work?</strong></p>

<p id="7">The showpiece event is comprised of five sessions over the course of three days&nbsp;(Friday – Sunday). Singles and doubles matches are played on each day. The matches that will be played on the opening day will be worth a point. Meanwhile, the fixtures to be held on the second day will be of two points and the final day's ties will comprise of three points. Each player must play at least one singles match in the first two days of the competition. In addition, no player can play singles more than twice.</p>

<p id="8">At least four players from each team must play doubles but no pair can be repeated. The tournament is a best-of-three-sets format, but the third set is a 10-point match tiebreaker if the opening two ends in a 1-1 stalemate. The team reaching to 13 points will be declared the winner whereas a decider will be held in case of a 12-12 scoreline.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/the-sport-has-given-me-everythig-roger-federer-wants-to-stay-connected-to-tennis-after-retirement-518267">'The sport has given me everything': Roger Federer wants to stay connected to tennis after retirement</a></strong></p>

<p id="9"><strong>What is the schedule of the Laver Cup 2022 edition?</strong></p>

<p id="10"><em>Friday September 23, 2022</em></p>

<p id="11">1.00pm Day Session</p>

<p id="12">Match 1 – Singles</p>

<p id="13">Match 2 – Singles</p>

<p id="14">7.00pm – Night Session</p>

<p id="15">Match 3 – Singles</p>

<p id="16">Match 4 – Doubles</p>

<p id="17"><em>Saturday September 24, 2022</em></p>

<p id="18">1.00pm Day Session</p>

<p id="19">Match 5 – Singles</p>

<p id="20">Match 6 – Singles</p>

<p id="21">7.00pm – Night Session</p>

<p id="22">Match 7 – Singles</p>

<p id="23">Match 8 – Doubles</p>

<p id="24"><em>Sunday September 25, 2022</em></p>

<p id="25">12.00pm – Day Session</p>

<p id="26">Match 9 – Doubles</p>

<p id="27">Match 10 – Singles*</p>

<p id="28">Match 11 – Singles*</p>

<p id="29">Match 12 – Singles*</p>

<p id="30">*if required</p>

<p>(<em>All times BST)</em></p>

<p id="31"><strong>Is the Laver Cup on TV?</strong></p>

<p id="32">The Laver Cup's telecast will be on the Sony Sports Network whereas the live streaming will be available&nbsp;on SonyLIV app and website.</p>


Last week, Roger Federer shocked one and all by announcing that he will step aside from tennis post the Laver Cup. The Laver Cup 2022 edition will kick off on September 23 and will be held at the O2 Arena in London till September 25 (Sunday).

Last week, Roger Federer shocked one and all by announcing that he will step aside from tennis post the Laver Cup. The Laver Cup 2022 edition will kick off on September 23 and will be held at the O2 Arena in London till September 25 (Sunday). Hence, many will be glued to their TV sets to see Federer in action for one last time as he is set to bid farewell to the game; bringing an end to his illustrious journey where he won 103 singles titles in a career spanning over 24 years. The Laver Cup is always a keenly-awaited tournament as it gives fans an opportunity to witness some of the biggest names in men's tennis to play with each other. Team Europe, who have won all the editions so far, will feature the likes of Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, Casper Ruud, Stefanos Tsitsipas and Andy Murray as they will take on Team World in the three-day event. Team World, on the other hand, will feature Felix Auger-Aliassime, Frances Tiafoe, Diego Schwartzman, Alex de Minaur, Taylor Fritz and Jack Sock. When is the Laver Cup? The Laver Cup will get underway on September 23, Friday and will conclude on September 25 (Sunday). How does the Laver Cup work? The showpiece event is comprised of five sessions over the course of three days (Friday – Sunday). Singles and doubles matches are played on each day. The matches that will be played on the opening day will be worth a point. Meanwhile, the fixtures to be held on the second day will be of two points and the final day's ties will comprise of three points. Each player must play at least one singles match in the first two days of the competition. In addition, no player can play singles more than twice. At least four players from each team must play doubles but no pair can be repeated. The tournament is a best-of-three-sets format, but the third set is a 10-point match tiebreaker if the opening two ends in a 1-1 stalemate. The team reaching to 13 points will be declared the winner whereas a decider will be held in case of a 12-12 scoreline. ALSO READ | 'The sport has given me everything': Roger Federer wants to stay connected to tennis after retirement What is the schedule of the Laver Cup 2022 edition? Friday September 23, 2022 1.00pm Day Session Match 1 – Singles Match 2 – Singles 7.00pm – Night Session Match 3 – Singles Match 4 – Doubles Saturday September 24, 2022 1.00pm Day Session Match 5 – Singles Match 6 – Singles 7.00pm – Night Session Match 7 – Singles Match 8 – Doubles Sunday September 25, 2022 12.00pm – Day Session Match 9 – Doubles Match 10 – Singles* Match 11 – Singles* Match 12 – Singles* *if required (All times BST) Is the Laver Cup on TV? The Laver Cup's telecast will be on the Sony Sports Network whereas the live streaming will be available on SonyLIV app and website.

EXPLAINED: What is Laver Cup and its format? Everything to know about Roger Federer's farewell event

Roger Federer gears up for the Laver Cup. The 20-time Grand Slam Champion hopes to team up with his greatest rival Rafael Nadal in what will be the final match of his legendary career.

Roger Federer to only play doubles at Laver Cup

<p>Roger Federer wants to bring the curtain down on his glittering career by teaming up with long-time rival Rafael Nadal at the Laver Cup in London on Friday. The 20-time Grand Slam winner announced last week that he intended to retire after the three-day tournament at London's 02 arena, which starts on Friday.</p>

<p>Federer, whose most recent competitive match was a loss to Hubert Hurkacz in last year's Wimbledon quarter-finals, has been struggling with a knee problem. The Swiss great confirmed on Wednesday that the final match of his long and illustrious career will be in the doubles on Friday evening.</p>

<p>Italian Matteo Berrettini, the first alternate for the tournament that pits Team Europe against Team World, will then take Federer's place over the weekend. The Swiss great does not yet know whether he will be able to link up with Nadal but said it would be the dream scenario. "Of course, no doubt," he told a packed press conference at the O2. "I mean, I think it could be quite a unique situation, you know, that if it were to happen."</p>

<p>Federer said he and Nadal, 36, had always maintained a respect for each other even as they vied for the biggest trophies in the sport. "For us as well to go through a career that we both have had and to come out on the other side and being able to have a nice relationship I think is maybe a great message as well to not just tennis but sports and maybe even beyond," he said.</p>

<p>"For that reason I think it would be great. I don't know if it's going to happen, but I think it could be obviously a special moment."</p>

<p>Nadal, who holds the record for Grand Slam titles in men's tennis with 22, Novak Djokovic, who has won 21, and three-time major winner Andy Murray are all part of the six-man Team Europe, captained by Bjorn Borg. Their opponents, Team World, skippered by John McEnroe, include Taylor Fritz, Felix Auger-Aliassime and Diego Schwartzman.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-stopped-believing-i-could-come-back-roger-federer-ahead-of-his-final-bow-at-laver-cup-2022-518373">I stopped believing I could come back: Roger Federer ahead of his final bow at Laver Cup 2022</a></strong></p>

<h2>- 'Bittersweet' -</h2>

<p>Federer said he was happy to step away from tennis at the age of 41 but admitted it was a "bittersweet decision". "You always want to play forever," he said. "I love being out on court, I love playing against the guys, I love travelling.&nbsp; "I never really felt like it was that hard for me to do, of winning, learn from losing, it was all perfect. I love my career from every angle."</p>

<p>The Swiss said he was happy with his place in the debate over who is the greatest of all time in the men's game even though his tally of Grand Slam titles has been eclipsed by Nadal and Djokovic. "I'm definitely very proud and very happy where I sit," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One of my big moments of course was winning my 15th slam at Wimbledon, you know, when Pete (Sampras, who had won a then-record 14) was sitting there. Anything after that was a bonus."</p>

<p>Federer said it was fitting that he would finish his career in London, where he has enjoyed so much success. "This city has been special to me, maybe the most special place with Wimbledon down the road and here at the O2. Having played here and qualified for so many years and won here as well (in the ATP Finals), I just thought it was very fitting."</p>

<p>He said he said he had no intention of disappearing off the radar despite his looming retirement. "I just wanted to let the fans know I won't be a ghost, you know. It's funny, you know, I talked about Bjorn Borg just before.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I don't think he returned to Wimbledon for 25 years. That, in a way, hurts every tennis fan. Totally acceptable, his life, his reasons.&nbsp; "But I don't think I'll be that guy and I feel tennis has given me too much. I have been around the game for too long, have fallen in love with too many things."</p>


Roger Federer wants to bring the curtain down on his glittering career by teaming up with long-time rival Rafael Nadal at the Laver Cup in London on Friday. The 20-time Grand Slam winner announced last week that he intended to retire after the three-day tournament at London's 02 arena, which starts on Friday.

Roger Federer wants to bring the curtain down on his glittering career by teaming up with long-time rival Rafael Nadal at the Laver Cup in London on Friday. The 20-time Grand Slam winner announced last week that he intended to retire after the three-day tournament at London's 02 arena, which starts on Friday. Federer, whose most recent competitive match was a loss to Hubert Hurkacz in last year's Wimbledon quarter-finals, has been struggling with a knee problem. The Swiss great confirmed on Wednesday that the final match of his long and illustrious career will be in the doubles on Friday evening. Italian Matteo Berrettini, the first alternate for the tournament that pits Team Europe against Team World, will then take Federer's place over the weekend. The Swiss great does not yet know whether he will be able to link up with Nadal but said it would be the dream scenario. "Of course, no doubt," he told a packed press conference at the O2. "I mean, I think it could be quite a unique situation, you know, that if it were to happen." Federer said he and Nadal, 36, had always maintained a respect for each other even as they vied for the biggest trophies in the sport. "For us as well to go through a career that we both have had and to come out on the other side and being able to have a nice relationship I think is maybe a great message as well to not just tennis but sports and maybe even beyond," he said. "For that reason I think it would be great. I don't know if it's going to happen, but I think it could be obviously a special moment." Nadal, who holds the record for Grand Slam titles in men's tennis with 22, Novak Djokovic, who has won 21, and three-time major winner Andy Murray are all part of the six-man Team Europe, captained by Bjorn Borg. Their opponents, Team World, skippered by John McEnroe, include Taylor Fritz, Felix Auger-Aliassime and Diego Schwartzman. ALSO READ | I stopped believing I could come back: Roger Federer ahead of his final bow at Laver Cup 2022 - 'Bittersweet' - Federer said he was happy to step away from tennis at the age of 41 but admitted it was a "bittersweet decision". "You always want to play forever," he said. "I love being out on court, I love playing against the guys, I love travelling. "I never really felt like it was that hard for me to do, of winning, learn from losing, it was all perfect. I love my career from every angle." The Swiss said he was happy with his place in the debate over who is the greatest of all time in the men's game even though his tally of Grand Slam titles has been eclipsed by Nadal and Djokovic. "I'm definitely very proud and very happy where I sit," he said. One of my big moments of course was winning my 15th slam at Wimbledon, you know, when Pete (Sampras, who had won a then-record 14) was sitting there. Anything after that was a bonus." Federer said it was fitting that he would finish his career in London, where he has enjoyed so much success. "This city has been special to me, maybe the most special place with Wimbledon down the road and here at the O2. Having played here and qualified for so many years and won here as well (in the ATP Finals), I just thought it was very fitting." He said he said he had no intention of disappearing off the radar despite his looming retirement. "I just wanted to let the fans know I won't be a ghost, you know. It's funny, you know, I talked about Bjorn Borg just before. "I don't think he returned to Wimbledon for 25 years. That, in a way, hurts every tennis fan. Totally acceptable, his life, his reasons. "But I don't think I'll be that guy and I feel tennis has given me too much. I have been around the game for too long, have fallen in love with too many things."

Laver Cup 2022: Roger Federer eyes dream farewell alongside long-time rival Rafael Nadal

<p>On September 15 (Thursday), the dreaded day arrived as Roger Federer -- former world number one and winner of 20 Grand Slams&nbsp;-- announced that he will retire from tennis after this month's Laver Cup (from September 23-25).</p>

<p>The Swiss maestro tweeted, "As many of you know, the past three years have presented me with challenges in the form of injuries and surgeries. I've worked hard to return to full competitive form. But I also know my body's capacities and limits, and its message to me lately has been clear. I am 41 years old. I have played more than 1,500 matches over 24 years. Tennis has treated me more generously than I ever would have dreamt, and now I must recognise when it is time to end my competitive career."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="und">❤️ <a href="https://t.co/YxtVWrlXIF">pic.twitter.com/YxtVWrlXIF</a></p>
— Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer/status/1570402045085253632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-inspired-countless-millions-serena-williams-welcomes-roger-federer-to-retirement-club-516712">'You inspired countless millions' - Serena Williams welcomes Roger Federer to retirement club</a></strong></p>

<p>Winning 103 singles titles in a career spanning 24 years, Federer transcended the sport as Tiger Woods, Sachin Tendulkar, and the likes did for their respective games. He started as a brat sporting a ponytail and would often smash racquets on the court in his early days&nbsp;but soon turned into a demigod for many, oozing calmness, serenity and&nbsp;righteousness with his presence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The world of tennis will never stop gushing over Federer's backhand and drop shots, hitting half-volleys winners year after year, standing on the baseline,&nbsp;etc. A plethora of articles have covered a lot about his game. Legends&nbsp;have lavished huge praise on his staggering success. Many journalists have dedicated a sole book&nbsp;describing Federer's class and skills on the court. Even though his ardent fans are well aware of his playing style, one simply cannot get enough of&nbsp;the Swiss maestro.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is a given that there won't be another Federer on the court. I, however,&nbsp;believe that&nbsp;there also won't be another like him who gave so much back to the game through his likable personality.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/reliving-arch-rivals-roger-federer-rafael-nadals-epic-camaraderie-over-the-years-video-516770"><strong>Reliving arch-rivals Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal's epic camaraderie over the years - Video</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>The pinky promise made to a young fan</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/57RpNFLTAZU" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>Accepting defeats with utmost grace</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dCjw0Unm8OY" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Losing&nbsp;5-7, 6-3, 6-7, 6-3, 2-6 to a then 22-year-old Rafael Nadal in the 2009 Australian Open final, an emotional Federer took some time to settle down but when he did, he was mature enough to 'not have the last word' during the presentation ceremony. He heaped praise on his opposition and said, "<em>Rafa, congrats. You played incredible. You deserve it, man. All the best for the season'</em>.</p>

<p>Federer instilled thoughtfulness in a young Nadal and schooled one and all to always take results -- favourable or not -- in the right manner.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-will-miss-seeing-you-on-the-court-making-us-enjoy-lionel-messi-all-praise-for-genius-roger-federer-516747">We will miss seeing you on the court making us enjoy: Lionel Messi all praise for 'genius' Roger Federer</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>No pressure of leading in the Grand Slam title-race</strong></p>

<p>After losing the Wimbledon 2019 final to Novak Djokovic -- which the Serbian won 7-6 (5), 1-6, 7-6 (4), 4-6, 13-12 (3) in an epic face-off in London -- Federer was still ahead with most GS titles (20). It took the then world no. 1 Djokovic to 16 major titles, two behind Nadal and&nbsp;trailing Federer's tally by four.</p>

<p>Federer, however, sidelined himself from the rat race for most titles. At the post-match presentation, he said, "You can't protect everything anyway. I didn't become a tennis player for that. I really didn't. It's about trying to win Wimbledon, trying to have good runs here, playing in front of such an amazing crowd in this Centre Court against players like Novak and so forth. That's what I play for. Yeah, so things are different now. But I'm very happy with my level of play nowadays still."</p>

<p>From helping a cancer patient with an inspirational message, ensuring the safety of his fans who went&nbsp;bonkers seeing him to applauding his opposition's on-court heroics against him, Federer was never the one to only win matches and titles. He also won hearts. He&nbsp;became the face of tennis not just for his magnanimous talent, envious skills, innumerable titles, and whopping net worth&nbsp;but for&nbsp;his humanitarian side.</p>

<blockquote>
<p>"<em>Obviously being ultimate professional and a gentleman. Roger would say hello to literally everyone regardless of ranking and status. Very very few of the past champions were ever like that. He was not only a fan-favourite but a player-favourite as well</em>," <em>Mahesh Bhupathi to&nbsp;WION post Federer's retirement tweet.</em></p>
</blockquote>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-gives-classy-reponse-to-rival-rafael-nadals-heartfelt-message-for-him-on-retirement-517106">Roger Federer gives classy response to rival Rafael Nadal's heartfelt message for him on retirement</a></strong></p>

<p>Federer's simplicity, generosity, sportsmanship, etc. have been bigger takeaways&nbsp;for one and&nbsp;all. It is tough to pick between <em>Federer the player versus</em>&nbsp;<em>Federer the human</em>. No matter whichever option one picks, he, or she will always be a winner. What stands out is his giving more with his overall personality than only as a&nbsp;champion player.</p>

<p>I took an interest in tennis only due to my father's love of the game. I was fortunate enough to start following the sport when the Federer-Nadal rivalry was at its nascent stage. Back then (and to date), I have cheered for the Spaniard. You tend to hate your favourite player's (or team) arch-rival in your younger days. With time, it became inevitable to hate Federer. Not just as a player, he will sweep you off your feet with his charisma and genial personality.</p>

<p>There were greats before Federer (Andre Agassi, Pete Sampras, Margaret Court, Steffi Graf, etc.), and there will be more to follow. But there won't be another one matching his personality. PERIOD!&nbsp;</p>


On September 15 (Thursday), the dreaded day arrived as Roger Federer -- former world number one and winner of 20 Grand Slams -- announced that he will retire from tennis after this month's Laver Cup (from September 23-25).

On September 15 (Thursday), the dreaded day arrived as Roger Federer -- former world number one and winner of 20 Grand Slams -- announced that he will retire from tennis after this month's Laver Cup (from September 23-25). The Swiss maestro tweeted, "As many of you know, the past three years have presented me with challenges in the form of injuries and surgeries. I've worked hard to return to full competitive form. But I also know my body's capacities and limits, and its message to me lately has been clear. I am 41 years old. I have played more than 1,500 matches over 24 years. Tennis has treated me more generously than I ever would have dreamt, and now I must recognise when it is time to end my competitive career." ❤️ pic.twitter.com/YxtVWrlXIF — Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) September 15, 2022 × ALSO READ | 'You inspired countless millions' - Serena Williams welcomes Roger Federer to retirement club Winning 103 singles titles in a career spanning 24 years, Federer transcended the sport as Tiger Woods, Sachin Tendulkar, and the likes did for their respective games. He started as a brat sporting a ponytail and would often smash racquets on the court in his early days but soon turned into a demigod for many, oozing calmness, serenity and righteousness with his presence. The world of tennis will never stop gushing over Federer's backhand and drop shots, hitting half-volleys winners year after year, standing on the baseline, etc. A plethora of articles have covered a lot about his game. Legends have lavished huge praise on his staggering success. Many journalists have dedicated a sole book describing Federer's class and skills on the court. Even though his ardent fans are well aware of his playing style, one simply cannot get enough of the Swiss maestro. It is a given that there won't be another Federer on the court. I, however, believe that there also won't be another like him who gave so much back to the game through his likable personality. ALSO READ | Reliving arch-rivals Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal's epic camaraderie over the years - Video The pinky promise made to a young fan × Accepting defeats with utmost grace × Losing 5-7, 6-3, 6-7, 6-3, 2-6 to a then 22-year-old Rafael Nadal in the 2009 Australian Open final, an emotional Federer took some time to settle down but when he did, he was mature enough to 'not have the last word' during the presentation ceremony. He heaped praise on his opposition and said, "Rafa, congrats. You played incredible. You deserve it, man. All the best for the season'. Federer instilled thoughtfulness in a young Nadal and schooled one and all to always take results -- favourable or not -- in the right manner. ALSO READ | We will miss seeing you on the court making us enjoy: Lionel Messi all praise for 'genius' Roger Federer No pressure of leading in the Grand Slam title-race After losing the Wimbledon 2019 final to Novak Djokovic -- which the Serbian won 7-6 (5), 1-6, 7-6 (4), 4-6, 13-12 (3) in an epic face-off in London -- Federer was still ahead with most GS titles (20). It took the then world no. 1 Djokovic to 16 major titles, two behind Nadal and trailing Federer's tally by four. Federer, however, sidelined himself from the rat race for most titles. At the post-match presentation, he said, "You can't protect everything anyway. I didn't become a tennis player for that. I really didn't. It's about trying to win Wimbledon, trying to have good runs here, playing in front of such an amazing crowd in this Centre Court against players like Novak and so forth. That's what I play for. Yeah, so things are different now. But I'm very happy with my level of play nowadays still." From helping a cancer patient with an inspirational message, ensuring the safety of his fans who went bonkers seeing him to applauding his opposition's on-court heroics against him, Federer was never the one to only win matches and titles. He also won hearts. He became the face of tennis not just for his magnanimous talent, envious skills, innumerable titles, and whopping net worth but for his humanitarian side. "Obviously being ultimate professional and a gentleman. Roger would say hello to literally everyone regardless of ranking and status. Very very few of the past champions were ever like that. He was not only a fan-favourite but a player-favourite as well," Mahesh Bhupathi to WION post Federer's retirement tweet. ALSO READ | Roger Federer gives classy response to rival Rafael Nadal's heartfelt message for him on retirement Federer's simplicity, generosity, sportsmanship, etc. have been bigger takeaways for one and all. It is tough to pick between Federer the player versus Federer the human. No matter whichever option one picks, he, or she will always be a winner. What stands out is his giving more with his overall personality than only as a champion player. I took an interest in tennis only due to my father's love of the game. I was fortunate enough to start following the sport when the Federer-Nadal rivalry was at its nascent stage. Back then (and to date), I have cheered for the Spaniard. You tend to hate your favourite player's (or team) arch-rival in your younger days. With time, it became inevitable to hate Federer. Not just as a player, he will sweep you off your feet with his charisma and genial personality. There were greats before Federer (Andre Agassi, Pete Sampras, Margaret Court, Steffi Graf, etc.), and there will be more to follow. But there won't be another one matching his personality. PERIOD!

Roger Federer retires: A Black Swan in tennis and GOAT beyond numbers

<p>Roger Federer announced his retirement from tennis earlier this week, confirming that the upcoming Laver Cup will be his final tournament. One of the greatest tennis players of all time, the Swiss maestro will hang up his boots with 20 Grand Slam titles under his belt.</p>

<p>Federer enjoyed an epic rivalry with Rafael Nadal throughout his career and the duo produced several memorable encounters for the fans. Despite being rivals on the court, Federer and Nadal remain good friends off it and have often spoken highly about each other.</p>

<p>Nadal had sent Federer a heartfelt message after the Swiss ace confirmed his retirement on Thursday and said it was an honour for him to play against him over the years. On Saturday, Federer came up with a classy response to Nadal's message for him.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/roger-federer-announces-retirement-unbelievable-milestones-in-tennis-legends-career-516507">Roger Federer announces retirement: Unbelievable milestones in tennis legend's career</a></p>

<p>"Dear Roger, my friend and rival. I wish this day would have never come… it’s a sad day for me personally and for sports people around the world. I said it to you when we spoke and now it’s here. It’s been a pleasure but also an honour and privilege to share all these years with you, living so many amazing moments on and off the court."</p>

<p>"We will have many more moments to share together in the future, there are still lots of things to do together, we know that. For now, I truly wish you all the happiness with your wife, Mirka, your kids, your family and enjoy what’s ahead of you. I’ll see you in London at the @lavercup," Nadal wrote in a tweet after Federer's retirement announcement.</p>

<p>"Thanks for the nice words, Rafa," responded the Swiss icon with a handshake emoji.</p>

<p><img alt="nadal federer" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="972151f9-c3fa-4660-9bdf-a730726a7571" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/nadal%20fed.png" /></p>

<p>Nadal and Federer remain the only player in the open era in men's tennis to have held the no.1 and the no.2 spot in the ATP rankings for six successive years. The duo enjoyed some enthralling duels between them with Nadal dominating on clay while Federer getting the better of him on grass courts.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-is-roger-federers-net-worth-a-sneak-peek-into-tennis-legends-earnings-and-fortune-516833">What is Roger Federer's net worth? A sneak peek into tennis legend's earnings and fortune</a></p>

<p>Nadal and Federer are set to reunite at the upcoming Laver Cup 2022 in London next week. It will be only the third time the duo will play alongside each other at the tournament after the 2017 and the 2019 editions. The tournament will also feature the likes of Novak Djokovic and Casper Ruud among others.</p>


Roger Federer announced his retirement from tennis earlier this week, confirming that the upcoming Laver Cup will be his final tournament. One of the greatest tennis players of all time, the Swiss maestro will hang up his boots with 20 Grand Slam titles under his belt.

Roger Federer announced his retirement from tennis earlier this week, confirming that the upcoming Laver Cup will be his final tournament. One of the greatest tennis players of all time, the Swiss maestro will hang up his boots with 20 Grand Slam titles under his belt. Federer enjoyed an epic rivalry with Rafael Nadal throughout his career and the duo produced several memorable encounters for the fans. Despite being rivals on the court, Federer and Nadal remain good friends off it and have often spoken highly about each other. Nadal had sent Federer a heartfelt message after the Swiss ace confirmed his retirement on Thursday and said it was an honour for him to play against him over the years. On Saturday, Federer came up with a classy response to Nadal's message for him. Also Read: Roger Federer announces retirement: Unbelievable milestones in tennis legend's career "Dear Roger, my friend and rival. I wish this day would have never come… it’s a sad day for me personally and for sports people around the world. I said it to you when we spoke and now it’s here. It’s been a pleasure but also an honour and privilege to share all these years with you, living so many amazing moments on and off the court." "We will have many more moments to share together in the future, there are still lots of things to do together, we know that. For now, I truly wish you all the happiness with your wife, Mirka, your kids, your family and enjoy what’s ahead of you. I’ll see you in London at the @lavercup," Nadal wrote in a tweet after Federer's retirement announcement. "Thanks for the nice words, Rafa," responded the Swiss icon with a handshake emoji. Nadal and Federer remain the only player in the open era in men's tennis to have held the no.1 and the no.2 spot in the ATP rankings for six successive years. The duo enjoyed some enthralling duels between them with Nadal dominating on clay while Federer getting the better of him on grass courts. Also Read: What is Roger Federer's net worth? A sneak peek into tennis legend's earnings and fortune Nadal and Federer are set to reunite at the upcoming Laver Cup 2022 in London next week. It will be only the third time the duo will play alongside each other at the tournament after the 2017 and the 2019 editions. The tournament will also feature the likes of Novak Djokovic and Casper Ruud among others.

Roger Federer gives classy response to Rafael Nadal's heartfelt message for him on retirement

<p>Roger Federer last played a competitive match during Wimbledon 2021 where Hubert Hurkacz defeated him in the quarter-finals. Since then, the Swiss maestro struggled to&nbsp;remain fit and didn't take part in any further tournaments. Thus, the whole tennis fraternity sensed that the former world number one's retirement was on the cards.</p>

<p>After Serena Williams called it quits with her final appearance in the recently-held US Open, Federer has joined her in the retirement journey with a shocking announcement on Thursday evening (September 15).&nbsp;"As many of you know, the past three years have presented me with challenges in the form of injuries and surgeries. I've worked hard to return to full competitive form. But I also know my body's capacities and limits, and its message to me lately has been clear. I am 41 years old. I have played more than 1,500 matches over 24 years. Tennis has treated me more generously than I ever would have dreamt, and now I must recognise when it is time to end my competitive career," tweeted Federer.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="und">❤️ <a href="https://t.co/YxtVWrlXIF">pic.twitter.com/YxtVWrlXIF</a></p>
— Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer/status/1570402045085253632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Thus, the D-day finally arrived. Many&nbsp;hoped for this day to miraculously never show up&nbsp;but it finally did with Federer -- one of the greatest athletes -- calling it quits after this year's Laver Cup. Following the shock announcement, WION's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo interacted with India's legendary player Mahesh Bhupathi -- 12-time Grand Slam champion -- as the veteran lauded the Swiss maestro and spoke on his legacy.</p>

<p>"I think that's what we all wished for (one last shot from Federer before ending his career). Honestly, Roger has been able to excel his career incredibly long. At his age and how physical tennis is, it wasn't meant to be unfortunately," opined Bhupathi.</p>

<p><em><strong>Federer's legacy - Ultimate professional, thorough gentleman &amp; a fan-favourite</strong></em></p>

<p>"Obviously being ultimate professional and a gentleman. Roger would say hello to literally everyone regardless of ranking and status. Very very few of the past champions were ever like that. He was not only a fan-favourite but a player-favourite as well," Bhupathi claimed.</p>

<p><strong><em>What stood out among Federer's records?</em></strong></p>

<p>The 48-year-old Bhupathi opined, "I think it was just the entire package. Once that switch came on after winning his maiden Grand Slam, he was a brat by&nbsp;breaking racquets but one fine day that switched turned on and since then he never set a foot wrong. Whatever he touched, it turned into gold."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-roger-federer-announces-retirement-516560/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/roger-federer-announces-retirement-unbelievable-milestones-in-tennis-legends-career-516507">Roger Federer announces retirement: Unbelievable milestones in tennis legend's career</a></strong></p>

<p><em><strong>Is he the GOAT?</strong></em></p>

<p>"Well, a lot of people ask me this. Including me, he will always be a fan favourite. For anyone who understands the game, he will always be up there. But sports statistics don't lie and he finishes at number three (20) -- behind Rafael Nadal (22) and Novak Djokovic (21) in terms of Grand Slam titles. Very hard to call him GOAT if he has a losing record versus his biggest rivals. But we all love him and what he gave to tennis and how he transcended the sport just like Tiger (Woods) did in golf," asserted Bhupathi.</p>

<p><em><strong>Say the name Federer and anyone would say 'tennis player'. Right?</strong></em></p>

<p>"He is once-in-a-generation athlete. We have been very lucky to see him in action. He has played tennis like no one has ever before. Standing on the baseline and hitting half-volley winners year after year. People don't understand how incredibly hard it is," added the Indian legend.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="und">😢 <a href="https://t.co/CGan3MxInn">pic.twitter.com/CGan3MxInn</a></p>
— Mahesh Bhupathi (@Maheshbhupathi) <a href="https://twitter.com/Maheshbhupathi/status/1570504235414069248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Federer won 103 singles titles in a career spanning 24 years. The 41-year-old ended with a staggering 20 Grand Slam titles and will sign off after this month's Laver Cup; also featuring Nadal, Djokovic, etc. Needless to say, it will be a sellout with fans coming from all corners to witness the great Federer in action for one last time.</p>


Roger Federer last played a competitive match during Wimbledon 2021 where Hubert Hurkacz defeated him in the quarter-finals. Since then, the Swiss maestro struggled to remain fit and didn't take part in any further tournaments.

Roger Federer last played a competitive match during Wimbledon 2021 where Hubert Hurkacz defeated him in the quarter-finals. Since then, the Swiss maestro struggled to remain fit and didn't take part in any further tournaments. Thus, the whole tennis fraternity sensed that the former world number one's retirement was on the cards. After Serena Williams called it quits with her final appearance in the recently-held US Open, Federer has joined her in the retirement journey with a shocking announcement on Thursday evening (September 15). "As many of you know, the past three years have presented me with challenges in the form of injuries and surgeries. I've worked hard to return to full competitive form. But I also know my body's capacities and limits, and its message to me lately has been clear. I am 41 years old. I have played more than 1,500 matches over 24 years. Tennis has treated me more generously than I ever would have dreamt, and now I must recognise when it is time to end my competitive career," tweeted Federer. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/YxtVWrlXIF — Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) September 15, 2022 × Thus, the D-day finally arrived. Many hoped for this day to miraculously never show up but it finally did with Federer -- one of the greatest athletes -- calling it quits after this year's Laver Cup. Following the shock announcement, WION's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo interacted with India's legendary player Mahesh Bhupathi -- 12-time Grand Slam champion -- as the veteran lauded the Swiss maestro and spoke on his legacy. "I think that's what we all wished for (one last shot from Federer before ending his career). Honestly, Roger has been able to excel his career incredibly long. At his age and how physical tennis is, it wasn't meant to be unfortunately," opined Bhupathi. Federer's legacy - Ultimate professional, thorough gentleman & a fan-favourite "Obviously being ultimate professional and a gentleman. Roger would say hello to literally everyone regardless of ranking and status. Very very few of the past champions were ever like that. He was not only a fan-favourite but a player-favourite as well," Bhupathi claimed. What stood out among Federer's records? The 48-year-old Bhupathi opined, "I think it was just the entire package. Once that switch came on after winning his maiden Grand Slam, he was a brat by breaking racquets but one fine day that switched turned on and since then he never set a foot wrong. Whatever he touched, it turned into gold." × ALSO READ | Roger Federer announces retirement: Unbelievable milestones in tennis legend's career Is he the GOAT? "Well, a lot of people ask me this. Including me, he will always be a fan favourite. For anyone who understands the game, he will always be up there. But sports statistics don't lie and he finishes at number three (20) -- behind Rafael Nadal (22) and Novak Djokovic (21) in terms of Grand Slam titles. Very hard to call him GOAT if he has a losing record versus his biggest rivals. But we all love him and what he gave to tennis and how he transcended the sport just like Tiger (Woods) did in golf," asserted Bhupathi. Say the name Federer and anyone would say 'tennis player'. Right? "He is once-in-a-generation athlete. We have been very lucky to see him in action. He has played tennis like no one has ever before. Standing on the baseline and hitting half-volley winners year after year. People don't understand how incredibly hard it is," added the Indian legend. 😢 pic.twitter.com/CGan3MxInn — Mahesh Bhupathi (@Maheshbhupathi) September 15, 2022 × Federer won 103 singles titles in a career spanning 24 years. The 41-year-old ended with a staggering 20 Grand Slam titles and will sign off after this month's Laver Cup; also featuring Nadal, Djokovic, etc. Needless to say, it will be a sellout with fans coming from all corners to witness the great Federer in action for one last time.

EXCLUSIVE | Roger Federer would say hello to anyone irrespective of ranking, status, says Mahesh Bhupathi

<p>The dreaded day finally arrived on Thursday (September 15) when 20-time Grand Slam winner&nbsp;Roger Federer&nbsp;announced his decision to retire from tennis after this month's Laver Cup.&nbsp;"As many of you know, the past three years have presented me with challenges in the form of injuries and surgeries. I've worked hard to return to full competitive form. But I also know my body's capacities and limits, and its message to me lately has been clear. I am 41 years old. I have played more than 1,500 matches over 24 years. Tennis has treated me more generously than I ever would have dreamt, and now I must recognise when it is time to end my competitive career," tweeted Federer.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="und">❤️ <a href="https://t.co/YxtVWrlXIF">pic.twitter.com/YxtVWrlXIF</a></p>
— Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer/status/1570402045085253632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Reactions have been pouring in from all corners ever since Federer dropped the bomb on Twitter last evening. The 41-year-old's arch-rival Rafael Nadal also joined in and shared a heartfelt note for the Swiss player who is set to make a farewell appearance in the forthcoming Laver Cup.</p>

<p>Over the years, Nadal and Federer have been up against each other in several humdingers. The two have been involved in some memorable rallies, joined in for an epic Instagram LIVE during Covid lockdown,&nbsp;lavished praises on one another irrespective of results after face-offs, and&nbsp;shown the world of sports how to carry a rivalry with the utmost respect.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Here's a throwback video of the Nadal-Federer camaraderie&nbsp;that the sports fanatics will surely miss:</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/naIXjVirI5U" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-will-miss-seeing-you-on-the-court-making-us-enjoy-lionel-messi-all-praise-for-genius-roger-federer-516747"><strong>We will miss seeing you on the court making us enjoy: Lionel Messi all praise for 'genius' Roger Federer</strong></a></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Dear Roger,my friend and rival.<br />
I wish this day would have never come. It’s a sad day for me personally and for sports around the world.<br />
It’s been a pleasure but also an honor and privilege to share all these years with you, living so many amazing moments on and off the court 👇🏻</p>
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal/status/1570442868057313285?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>On Federer's retirement announcement, Nadal poured his heart out and paid a fitting tribute. He tweeted, "Dear Roger,my friend and rival. I wish this day would have never come. It’s a sad day for me personally and for sports around the world. It’s been a pleasure but also an honor and privilege to share all these years with you, living so many amazing moments on and off the court.&nbsp;</p>

<p>We will have many more moments to share together in the future, there are still lots of things to do together, we know that.&nbsp; For now, I truly wish you all the happiness with your wife, Mirka, your kids, your family and enjoy what’s ahead of you. I’ll see you in London&nbsp;@LaverCup"</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Dear Roger,my friend and rival.<br />
I wish this day would have never come. It’s a sad day for me personally and for sports around the world.<br />
It’s been a pleasure but also an honor and privilege to share all these years with you, living so many amazing moments on and off the court 👇🏻</p>
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal/status/1570442868057313285?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Federer, who last played a competitive match in Wimbledon 2021, will feature in the star-studded Laver Cup where Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and the likes will also take part. Fans will, thus, hope for a memorable sign-off&nbsp;to the epic Nadal-Federer camaraderie on the court.</p>


The dreaded day finally arrived on Thursday (September 15) when 20-time Grand Slam winner Roger Federer announced his decision to retire from tennis after this month's Laver Cup.

The dreaded day finally arrived on Thursday (September 15) when 20-time Grand Slam winner Roger Federer announced his decision to retire from tennis after this month's Laver Cup. "As many of you know, the past three years have presented me with challenges in the form of injuries and surgeries. I've worked hard to return to full competitive form. But I also know my body's capacities and limits, and its message to me lately has been clear. I am 41 years old. I have played more than 1,500 matches over 24 years. Tennis has treated me more generously than I ever would have dreamt, and now I must recognise when it is time to end my competitive career," tweeted Federer. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/YxtVWrlXIF — Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) September 15, 2022 × Reactions have been pouring in from all corners ever since Federer dropped the bomb on Twitter last evening. The 41-year-old's arch-rival Rafael Nadal also joined in and shared a heartfelt note for the Swiss player who is set to make a farewell appearance in the forthcoming Laver Cup. Over the years, Nadal and Federer have been up against each other in several humdingers. The two have been involved in some memorable rallies, joined in for an epic Instagram LIVE during Covid lockdown, lavished praises on one another irrespective of results after face-offs, and shown the world of sports how to carry a rivalry with the utmost respect. Here's a throwback video of the Nadal-Federer camaraderie that the sports fanatics will surely miss: × ALSO READ | We will miss seeing you on the court making us enjoy: Lionel Messi all praise for 'genius' Roger Federer Dear Roger,my friend and rival. I wish this day would have never come. It’s a sad day for me personally and for sports around the world. It’s been a pleasure but also an honor and privilege to share all these years with you, living so many amazing moments on and off the court 👇🏻 — Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) September 15, 2022 × On Federer's retirement announcement, Nadal poured his heart out and paid a fitting tribute. He tweeted, "Dear Roger,my friend and rival. I wish this day would have never come. It’s a sad day for me personally and for sports around the world. It’s been a pleasure but also an honor and privilege to share all these years with you, living so many amazing moments on and off the court. We will have many more moments to share together in the future, there are still lots of things to do together, we know that. For now, I truly wish you all the happiness with your wife, Mirka, your kids, your family and enjoy what’s ahead of you. I’ll see you in London @LaverCup" Dear Roger,my friend and rival. I wish this day would have never come. It’s a sad day for me personally and for sports around the world. It’s been a pleasure but also an honor and privilege to share all these years with you, living so many amazing moments on and off the court 👇🏻 — Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) September 15, 2022 × Federer, who last played a competitive match in Wimbledon 2021, will feature in the star-studded Laver Cup where Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and the likes will also take part. Fans will, thus, hope for a memorable sign-off to the epic Nadal-Federer camaraderie on the court.

Reliving arch-rivals Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal's epic camaraderie over the years - Video

Defeating Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic to winning US Open: Meet Carlos Alcaraz, the teenage sensation!

<p>Rafael Nadal shared a heartfelt tweet for US Open 2022 champion Carlos Alcaraz and even lauded his academy product Casper Ruud, the eventual runners-up, after a riveting men's singles final in the last Grand Slam of the calendar year. Both youngsters Alcaraz and Ruud met each other in the summit clash at the&nbsp;Arthur Ashe Stadium. In a pulsating contest, Alcaraz beat Ruud&nbsp;6-4, 2-6, 7-6, 6-3 to win his maiden Grand Slam title and also be crowned the new world number one.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the stunning win, the 19-year-old Alcarad was quoted as saying by ATP, "It is something I have dreamt of since I was a kid. To be No. 1 in the world, to be champion of a Grand Slam, is something I have worked really, really hard (for). It is tough to talk right now, I have lots of emotions. This is something I have tried to achieve. All the hard work I have done with my team and my family. I am just 19 years old, and all the tough decisions have been with my parents and my team as well. It is something that is really special for me," he added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/carlos-alcaraz-defeats-casper-ruud-to-win-us-open-ascends-to-world-number-one-515250"><strong>Carlos Alcaraz defeats Casper Ruud to win US Open, ascends to world number one</strong></a></p>

<p>"There is no time to be tired in the final rounds of a Grand Slam... You have to be ready and give everything you have inside. It is something I work really hard for," Alcaraz further opined. "Things have been going so well. Today was a special evening," his opponent Ruud said. "Both Carlos (Alcaraz) and I knew what we were playing for and what was at stake. We will be No. 2 and No. 1 in the world, I think it is fitting. I am disappointed of course that I am not No. 1, but No. 2 is not bad either. I am happy with that number and I will continue to chase for my first Grand Slam title and No. 1 ranking," added the Norwegian.</p>

<p><strong>WORDS OF PRAISE FROM RAFA</strong></p>

<p>Alcaraz, youngest world No. 1&nbsp;In ATP rankings, also received a heartfelt tweet from compatriot Rafael Nadal post his maiden Grand Slam title win. After the conclusion of the men's singles final, Nadal -- who bowed out of the US Open with a Round of 16 defeat to Frances Tiafoe -- tweeted saying, "Congratulations @carlosalcaraz&nbsp;for your first Grand Slam and for number 1, which is the culmination of your first great season, which I am sure will be many more!"</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="es">Felicidades <a href="https://twitter.com/carlosalcaraz?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@carlosalcaraz</a> por tu primer Grand Slam y por el número 1 que es el colofón a tu primera gran temporada que estoy seguro serán muchas más! 👏🏻<br />
Great effort <a href="https://twitter.com/CasperRuud98?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CasperRuud98</a> !very proud of you! Tough luck today but amazing tournament and season! Keep going!</p>
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal/status/1569108751331762177?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 11, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Nadal also lavished huge praise on his academy produce Ruud and wrote, "Great effort @CasperRuud98 ! very proud of you! Tough luck today but amazing tournament and season! Keep going!" It is to be noted that Ruud is a student of the Rafa Nadal Academy in the Spaniard's hometown of Manacor, Mallorca. In the new ATP rankings, Alcaraz will now be the No. 1 ranked player with runners-up Ruud taking the second spot.&nbsp;</p>


Rafael Nadal shared a heartfelt tweet for US Open 2022 champion Carlos Alcaraz and even lauded his academy product Casper Ruud, the eventual runners-up, after a riveting men's singles final in the last Grand Slam of the calendar year.

Rafael Nadal shared a heartfelt tweet for US Open 2022 champion Carlos Alcaraz and even lauded his academy product Casper Ruud, the eventual runners-up, after a riveting men's singles final in the last Grand Slam of the calendar year. Both youngsters Alcaraz and Ruud met each other in the summit clash at the Arthur Ashe Stadium. In a pulsating contest, Alcaraz beat Ruud 6-4, 2-6, 7-6, 6-3 to win his maiden Grand Slam title and also be crowned the new world number one. After the stunning win, the 19-year-old Alcarad was quoted as saying by ATP, "It is something I have dreamt of since I was a kid. To be No. 1 in the world, to be champion of a Grand Slam, is something I have worked really, really hard (for). It is tough to talk right now, I have lots of emotions. This is something I have tried to achieve. All the hard work I have done with my team and my family. I am just 19 years old, and all the tough decisions have been with my parents and my team as well. It is something that is really special for me," he added. ALSO READ | Carlos Alcaraz defeats Casper Ruud to win US Open, ascends to world number one "There is no time to be tired in the final rounds of a Grand Slam... You have to be ready and give everything you have inside. It is something I work really hard for," Alcaraz further opined. "Things have been going so well. Today was a special evening," his opponent Ruud said. "Both Carlos (Alcaraz) and I knew what we were playing for and what was at stake. We will be No. 2 and No. 1 in the world, I think it is fitting. I am disappointed of course that I am not No. 1, but No. 2 is not bad either. I am happy with that number and I will continue to chase for my first Grand Slam title and No. 1 ranking," added the Norwegian. WORDS OF PRAISE FROM RAFA Alcaraz, youngest world No. 1 In ATP rankings, also received a heartfelt tweet from compatriot Rafael Nadal post his maiden Grand Slam title win. After the conclusion of the men's singles final, Nadal -- who bowed out of the US Open with a Round of 16 defeat to Frances Tiafoe -- tweeted saying, "Congratulations @carlosalcaraz for your first Grand Slam and for number 1, which is the culmination of your first great season, which I am sure will be many more!" Felicidades @carlosalcaraz por tu primer Grand Slam y por el número 1 que es el colofón a tu primera gran temporada que estoy seguro serán muchas más! 👏🏻 Great effort @CasperRuud98 !very proud of you! Tough luck today but amazing tournament and season! Keep going! — Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) September 11, 2022 × Nadal also lavished huge praise on his academy produce Ruud and wrote, "Great effort @CasperRuud98 ! very proud of you! Tough luck today but amazing tournament and season! Keep going!" It is to be noted that Ruud is a student of the Rafa Nadal Academy in the Spaniard's hometown of Manacor, Mallorca. In the new ATP rankings, Alcaraz will now be the No. 1 ranked player with runners-up Ruud taking the second spot.

Rafael Nadal shares heartfelt tweet for US Open champion Carlos Alcaraz, lauds academy product Casper Ruud

<p>It was a night to remember for 19-year-old Carlos Alcaraz as he defeated Casper Ruud in the final to claim his maiden US Open title on Sunday. The youngster from Spain maintained his calm at his first ever Grand Slam final and as a result of the victory, became the youngest World No 1 in history.</p>

<p>It has been a mercurial rise to fame for Alvarez who has proven his mettle – both through skill and determination. With a total of 23 hours and 40 minutes on court, he broke the conventional stigma surrounding younger players and their inability to finish the match when taken to five sets.</p>

<p>Since the age of 17, Alcaraz was considered a special talent by a number of people in Spain, and he even earned top praise from Tony Nadal. He went on to compare Alcaraz to Rafael Nadal when it comes to the path of their careers and also the intensity both players show on the court.</p>

<p>"Carlos' intensity and speed is something you rarely see. His game follows the same path as Rafa; he never gives up until the last ball and has that characteristic intensity," Toni Nadal told AFP.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/madushan-hasaranga-star-as-sri-lanka-thrash-pakistan-by-23-runs-to-clinch-sixth-asia-cup-title-515235" hreflang="en">Pramod Madushan, Wanindu Hasaranga star as Sri Lanka thrash Pakistan by 23 runs to clinch sixth Asia Cup title</a></p>

<p>However, the journey was not without its fair share of ups and downs. Alcaraz started his training at the at the Real Sociedad Club de Campo de Murcia where his father was the tennis academy director and later, joined Juan Carlos Ferrero's Equelite JC Ferrero Sport Academy at the age of 16.</p>

<p>The new training regime worked wonders for the youngster as he became the youngest participant in the 2018 Australian Open and even made it to the second round. The connection with Nadal also continued in an odd way as he broke the veteran’s record for being the youngest match winner at the Madrid Open that year. In 2021, he also became the youngest to break into the ATP top 100.</p>

<p>The magical run continued as he defeated world No. 3 Stefanos Tsitsipas in a fifth-set tiebreak at last year’s US Open. He even became one of the youngest players to reach the quarterfinal stage of the competition, but a leg injury ended his campaign with a loss against Felix Auger-Aliassime.</p>

<p>The injury, however, was not able to keep him out for long as he continued to make significant gains as he defeated Tsitsipas once again at the Barcelona Open and went on to claim his first Masters 1000 title by defeating Casper Ruud. The victory earned him a lot of praise – even from Rafael Nadal.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/carlos-alcaraz-defeats-casper-ruud-to-win-us-open-ascends-to-world-number-one-515250" hreflang="en">Carlos Alcaraz defeats Casper Ruud to win US Open, ascends to world number one</a></p>

<p>Finally, a day after his 19th birthday, he registered a famous win over Nadal at the Madrid Open as he became the first teenager to beat him on clay. In the very next match, he went up against Novak Djokovic and although there were some hiccups, he prevailed with a sensational victory.</p>

<p>The first three Grand Slams saw Alcaraz make the third or fourth rounds but failing to capitalise on the gains. However, it all changed at the US Open. With no Djokovic and Nadal struggling with his fitness, the field was wide open and Alcaraz seemed like the dark horse with his gritty gameplay.</p>

<p>With wins over Sebastian Baez, Federico Coria and Jenson Brooksby, he cruised into the fourth round. The next two matches against Marin Cilic and Janik Sinner both went to the fifth set, but there was no stopping the young sensation. While most experts felt that he may burn out due to the marathon matches, Alcaraz proved his talent once again as he dominated proceedings against Ruud.</p>

<p>Despite losing a set, he hardly looked uncomfortable against his Norwegian opponent and with the No 1 crown already on his head, it will be interesting to see the heights that await him in the future.</p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


It was a night to remember for 19-year-old Carlos Alcaraz as he defeated Casper Ruud in the final to claim his maiden US Open title on Sunday. The youngster from Spain maintained his calm at his first ever Grand Slam final and as a result of the victory, became the youngest World No 1 in history.

It was a night to remember for 19-year-old Carlos Alcaraz as he defeated Casper Ruud in the final to claim his maiden US Open title on Sunday. The youngster from Spain maintained his calm at his first ever Grand Slam final and as a result of the victory, became the youngest World No 1 in history. It has been a mercurial rise to fame for Alvarez who has proven his mettle – both through skill and determination. With a total of 23 hours and 40 minutes on court, he broke the conventional stigma surrounding younger players and their inability to finish the match when taken to five sets. Since the age of 17, Alcaraz was considered a special talent by a number of people in Spain, and he even earned top praise from Tony Nadal. He went on to compare Alcaraz to Rafael Nadal when it comes to the path of their careers and also the intensity both players show on the court. "Carlos' intensity and speed is something you rarely see. His game follows the same path as Rafa; he never gives up until the last ball and has that characteristic intensity," Toni Nadal told AFP. Also read | Pramod Madushan, Wanindu Hasaranga star as Sri Lanka thrash Pakistan by 23 runs to clinch sixth Asia Cup title However, the journey was not without its fair share of ups and downs. Alcaraz started his training at the at the Real Sociedad Club de Campo de Murcia where his father was the tennis academy director and later, joined Juan Carlos Ferrero's Equelite JC Ferrero Sport Academy at the age of 16. The new training regime worked wonders for the youngster as he became the youngest participant in the 2018 Australian Open and even made it to the second round. The connection with Nadal also continued in an odd way as he broke the veteran’s record for being the youngest match winner at the Madrid Open that year. In 2021, he also became the youngest to break into the ATP top 100. The magical run continued as he defeated world No. 3 Stefanos Tsitsipas in a fifth-set tiebreak at last year’s US Open. He even became one of the youngest players to reach the quarterfinal stage of the competition, but a leg injury ended his campaign with a loss against Felix Auger-Aliassime. The injury, however, was not able to keep him out for long as he continued to make significant gains as he defeated Tsitsipas once again at the Barcelona Open and went on to claim his first Masters 1000 title by defeating Casper Ruud. The victory earned him a lot of praise – even from Rafael Nadal. Also read | Carlos Alcaraz defeats Casper Ruud to win US Open, ascends to world number one Finally, a day after his 19th birthday, he registered a famous win over Nadal at the Madrid Open as he became the first teenager to beat him on clay. In the very next match, he went up against Novak Djokovic and although there were some hiccups, he prevailed with a sensational victory. The first three Grand Slams saw Alcaraz make the third or fourth rounds but failing to capitalise on the gains. However, it all changed at the US Open. With no Djokovic and Nadal struggling with his fitness, the field was wide open and Alcaraz seemed like the dark horse with his gritty gameplay. With wins over Sebastian Baez, Federico Coria and Jenson Brooksby, he cruised into the fourth round. The next two matches against Marin Cilic and Janik Sinner both went to the fifth set, but there was no stopping the young sensation. While most experts felt that he may burn out due to the marathon matches, Alcaraz proved his talent once again as he dominated proceedings against Ruud. Despite losing a set, he hardly looked uncomfortable against his Norwegian opponent and with the No 1 crown already on his head, it will be interesting to see the heights that await him in the future.

Carlos Alcaraz: The newly crowned world No 1 who took US Open by storm

<p>Queen Elizabeth II passed away on Thursday (September 8) at the age of 96. UK's longest-serving monarch is survived by four children, eight grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. She has left a huge legacy as a period of national mourning has been declared.&nbsp;As a result, various ongoing sporting activities are being halted immediately post the Queen's demise as a mark of respect and mourning. The third and final Test between England and South Africa&nbsp; is being suspended&nbsp;with golf and horse racing (which was Her Majesty The Queen's&nbsp;favourite sport) following suit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After her passing away, a statement from King Charles III read, "The death of my beloved Mother, Her Majesty The Queen, is a moment of the greatest sadness for me and all members of my family. We mourn profoundly the passing of a cherished Sovereign and a much-loved Mother. I know her loss will be deeply felt throughout the country, the Realms and the Commonwealth, and by countless people around the world.”</p>

<p>“During this period of mourning and change, my family and I will be comforted and sustained by our knowledge of the respect and deep affection in which The Queen was so widely held,” it added.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A statement from His Majesty The King: <a href="https://t.co/AnBiyZCher">pic.twitter.com/AnBiyZCher</a></p>
— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) <a href="https://twitter.com/RoyalFamily/status/1567936934290329608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Sporting fraternity have also joined in to mourn the passing away of Her Majesty The Queen Elizabeth&nbsp;II with reactions pouring in from all corners.<strong> Here are some of the tributes:</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Manchester United shares the sorrow of the entire nation following the announcement from Buckingham Palace on the passing of Her Royal Highness The Queen Elizabeth II. <a href="https://t.co/QwLRZ9z4yf">pic.twitter.com/QwLRZ9z4yf</a></p>
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManUtd/status/1567931255060062208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Liverpool Football Club is saddened by the passing of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. We extend our sincere condolences to The Royal Family. <a href="https://t.co/B0ceXcaoW0">pic.twitter.com/B0ceXcaoW0</a></p>
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/LFC/status/1567953502202118145?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">My most respectful, sincere and deepest condolences to the Royal Family of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and to the British people for the pass of Her Majesty Queen Elisabeth II</p>
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal/status/1568035786959818752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 9, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">My condolences to the Royal Family at this very sad time. The Queen was loved all over the world and meant so much to so many. Meeting her was one of the greatest honours of my life. We will remember her for her warmth and dedication to the British people throughout her reign. <a href="https://t.co/TybbYku1Vl">pic.twitter.com/TybbYku1Vl</a></p>
— Sir Mo Farah (@Mo_Farah) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mo_Farah/status/1567953620125253634?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Rest in peace, Queen Elizabeth II 🕊️<br />
<br />
We're sending our deepest condolences to the <a href="https://twitter.com/RoyalFamily?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RoyalFamily</a>. <a href="https://t.co/GqxtLovZXq">pic.twitter.com/GqxtLovZXq</a></p>
— Germany (@DFB_Team_EN) <a href="https://twitter.com/DFB_Team_EN/status/1567957158905679874?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The EFL and its Clubs are truly saddened to learn of the passing of Her Majesty the Queen Elizabeth II, at the age of 96.<br />
<br />
Our collective thoughts are with the Royal Family at this difficult time. <a href="https://t.co/aEmFQnIRce">https://t.co/aEmFQnIRce</a></p>
— EFL (@EFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/EFL/status/1567929500326940673?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I have been a great admirer of Queen Elizabeth II since the first time I saw her in person, in 1968, when she came to Brazil to witness our love for football and experienced the magic of a packed Maracanã.<br />
<br />
Her deeds have marked generations. This legacy will last forever. <a href="https://t.co/13xyilesGT">pic.twitter.com/13xyilesGT</a></p>
— Pelé (@Pele) <a href="https://twitter.com/Pele/status/1567942357269749760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Following the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Friday's play between England and South Africa Men at The Oval, along with all scheduled matches in the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy, will not take place.<br />
<br />
For fixtures beyond Friday, updates will be provided in due course. <a href="https://t.co/hcQ6CBJ3Wx">pic.twitter.com/hcQ6CBJ3Wx</a></p>
— England and Wales Cricket Board (@ECB_cricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/ECB_cricket/status/1567942813077196802?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We are extremely saddened by the news that Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II has passed away.<br />
<br />
All of our thoughts are with the <a href="https://twitter.com/RoyalFamily?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RoyalFamily</a> at this incredibly difficult time. <a href="https://t.co/o93d8F7oQX">pic.twitter.com/o93d8F7oQX</a></p>
— England Football (@EnglandFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/EnglandFootball/status/1567948294827003908?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I am deeply saddened by the passing of Her Royal Majesty. Her elegance, grace and loyalty to her duty will live on in history. I would like to send my thoughts and condolences to the entire Royal Family and Great Britain. <a href="https://t.co/4rrUIPbLkV">pic.twitter.com/4rrUIPbLkV</a></p>
— Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer/status/1567998031848689664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">My thoughts are with the Royal Family at this very difficult time. The Queen was an amazing inspiration and will be remembered for her incredible years of service to this country. Rest in peace, Your Majesty. <a href="https://t.co/Tj0NrDpWBo">https://t.co/Tj0NrDpWBo</a></p>
— Harry Kane (@HKane) <a href="https://twitter.com/HKane/status/1567944522998468608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">My deepest condolences to the Royal Family at this incredibly sad time. <a href="https://t.co/Vju0UqeaEN">pic.twitter.com/Vju0UqeaEN</a></p>
— Raheem Sterling (@sterling7) <a href="https://twitter.com/sterling7/status/1567939737477849095?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>Mark of respect worldwide</strong></p>

<p>The members of the New York Yankees also observed silence in honour of Queen Elizabeth II ahead of their clash versus the Minnesota Twins at Yankee Stadium&nbsp;in the Bronx borough of New York City. Moreover, Arsenal's UEFA Europa League (UEL) encounter versus FC Zurich had kicked off when the news of The Queen's demise spread like wildfire and, hence, a minute's silence was observed at half-time. Similarly, a minute's silence was observed at Old Trafford in the UEL face-off between Manchester United and Rad Sociedad, with players also wearing black armbands.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-queen-elizabeth-has-passed-away-says-buckingham-palace-514233"><strong>Britain's longest serving monarch Queen Elizabeth II passes away at the age of 96, Charles becomes King</strong></a></p>

<p>India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi also reacted&nbsp;to The Queen's demise. PM Modi tweeted, "I had memorable meetings with Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II during my UK visits in 2015 and 2018. I will never forget her warmth and kindness. During one of the meetings, she showed me the handkerchief Mahatma Gandhi had gifted her on her wedding. I will always cherish that gesture."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I had memorable meetings with Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II during my UK visits in 2015 and 2018. I will never forget her warmth and kindness. During one of the meetings she showed me the handkerchief Mahatma Gandhi gifted her on her wedding. I will always cherish that gesture. <a href="https://t.co/3aACbxhLgC">pic.twitter.com/3aACbxhLgC</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1567931985661927424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The Queen's health had deteriorated in the recent past and, hence, she had cut down on public appearances to a great extent. As a result, she had to also withdraw from a planned meeting with her senior political advisers on September 7 (Wednesday) before breathing her last on Thursday evening. Charles, erstwhile Prince of Wales, the eldest of her four children, became&nbsp;king immediately post her passing away.</p>


Queen Elizabeth II passed away on Thursday (September 8) at the age of 96. UK's longest-serving monarch is survived by four children, eight grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

Queen Elizabeth II passed away on Thursday (September 8) at the age of 96. UK's longest-serving monarch is survived by four children, eight grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. She has left a huge legacy as a period of national mourning has been declared. As a result, various ongoing sporting activities are being halted immediately post the Queen's demise as a mark of respect and mourning. The third and final Test between England and South Africa is being suspended with golf and horse racing (which was Her Majesty The Queen's favourite sport) following suit. After her passing away, a statement from King Charles III read, "The death of my beloved Mother, Her Majesty The Queen, is a moment of the greatest sadness for me and all members of my family. We mourn profoundly the passing of a cherished Sovereign and a much-loved Mother. I know her loss will be deeply felt throughout the country, the Realms and the Commonwealth, and by countless people around the world.” “During this period of mourning and change, my family and I will be comforted and sustained by our knowledge of the respect and deep affection in which The Queen was so widely held,” it added. A statement from His Majesty The King: pic.twitter.com/AnBiyZCher — The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) September 8, 2022 × Sporting fraternity have also joined in to mourn the passing away of Her Majesty The Queen Elizabeth II with reactions pouring in from all corners. Here are some of the tributes: Manchester United shares the sorrow of the entire nation following the announcement from Buckingham Palace on the passing of Her Royal Highness The Queen Elizabeth II. pic.twitter.com/QwLRZ9z4yf — Manchester United (@ManUtd) September 8, 2022 × Liverpool Football Club is saddened by the passing of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. We extend our sincere condolences to The Royal Family. pic.twitter.com/B0ceXcaoW0 — Liverpool FC (@LFC) September 8, 2022 × My most respectful, sincere and deepest condolences to the Royal Family of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and to the British people for the pass of Her Majesty Queen Elisabeth II — Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) September 9, 2022 × My condolences to the Royal Family at this very sad time. The Queen was loved all over the world and meant so much to so many. Meeting her was one of the greatest honours of my life. We will remember her for her warmth and dedication to the British people throughout her reign. pic.twitter.com/TybbYku1Vl — Sir Mo Farah (@Mo_Farah) September 8, 2022 × Rest in peace, Queen Elizabeth II 🕊️ We're sending our deepest condolences to the @RoyalFamily. pic.twitter.com/GqxtLovZXq — Germany (@DFB_Team_EN) September 8, 2022 × The EFL and its Clubs are truly saddened to learn of the passing of Her Majesty the Queen Elizabeth II, at the age of 96. Our collective thoughts are with the Royal Family at this difficult time. https://t.co/aEmFQnIRce — EFL (@EFL) September 8, 2022 × I have been a great admirer of Queen Elizabeth II since the first time I saw her in person, in 1968, when she came to Brazil to witness our love for football and experienced the magic of a packed Maracanã. Her deeds have marked generations. This legacy will last forever. pic.twitter.com/13xyilesGT — Pelé (@Pele) September 8, 2022 × Following the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Friday's play between England and South Africa Men at The Oval, along with all scheduled matches in the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy, will not take place. For fixtures beyond Friday, updates will be provided in due course. pic.twitter.com/hcQ6CBJ3Wx — England and Wales Cricket Board (@ECB_cricket) September 8, 2022 × We are extremely saddened by the news that Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II has passed away. All of our thoughts are with the @RoyalFamily at this incredibly difficult time. pic.twitter.com/o93d8F7oQX — England Football (@EnglandFootball) September 8, 2022 × I am deeply saddened by the passing of Her Royal Majesty. Her elegance, grace and loyalty to her duty will live on in history. I would like to send my thoughts and condolences to the entire Royal Family and Great Britain. pic.twitter.com/4rrUIPbLkV — Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) September 8, 2022 × My thoughts are with the Royal Family at this very difficult time. The Queen was an amazing inspiration and will be remembered for her incredible years of service to this country. Rest in peace, Your Majesty. https://t.co/Tj0NrDpWBo — Harry Kane (@HKane) September 8, 2022 × My deepest condolences to the Royal Family at this incredibly sad time. pic.twitter.com/Vju0UqeaEN — Raheem Sterling (@sterling7) September 8, 2022 × Mark of respect worldwide The members of the New York Yankees also observed silence in honour of Queen Elizabeth II ahead of their clash versus the Minnesota Twins at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx borough of New York City. Moreover, Arsenal's UEFA Europa League (UEL) encounter versus FC Zurich had kicked off when the news of The Queen's demise spread like wildfire and, hence, a minute's silence was observed at half-time. Similarly, a minute's silence was observed at Old Trafford in the UEL face-off between Manchester United and Rad Sociedad, with players also wearing black armbands. ALSO READ | Britain's longest serving monarch Queen Elizabeth II passes away at the age of 96, Charles becomes King India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi also reacted to The Queen's demise. PM Modi tweeted, "I had memorable meetings with Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II during my UK visits in 2015 and 2018. I will never forget her warmth and kindness. During one of the meetings, she showed me the handkerchief Mahatma Gandhi had gifted her on her wedding. I will always cherish that gesture." I had memorable meetings with Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II during my UK visits in 2015 and 2018. I will never forget her warmth and kindness. During one of the meetings she showed me the handkerchief Mahatma Gandhi gifted her on her wedding. I will always cherish that gesture. pic.twitter.com/3aACbxhLgC — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 8, 2022 × The Queen's health had deteriorated in the recent past and, hence, she had cut down on public appearances to a great extent. As a result, she had to also withdraw from a planned meeting with her senior political advisers on September 7 (Wednesday) before breathing her last on Thursday evening. Charles, erstwhile Prince of Wales, the eldest of her four children, became king immediately post her passing away.

'This legacy will last forever' - Sports fraternity pays tributes to Queen Elizabeth II after her passing away

<p>Rafael Nadal was a&nbsp;favourite to clinch the US Open&nbsp;title, especially after defending champion Daniil Medvedev's&nbsp;defeat to Nick Krygios. Nonetheless, the Spaniard was shown the door by America's Frances Tiafoe in the Round of 16 clash. Tiafoe has now ousted&nbsp;Russian ninth seed Andrey Rublev 7-6 (7/3), 7-6 (7/0), 6-4 in straight sets to setup a semi-final clash with Carlos Alcaraz in the last Grand Slam of the year.</p>

<p>The 24-year-old Tiafoe, who is aiming to become the first African-American man to clinch the US Open since Arthur Ashe in 1968, reflected on his win during&nbsp;an on-court interview post the proceedings, "I feel so at home at courts like this. This court is unbelievable. You guys get so far behind me, you know I want to play and want to give it my best. I always find a way somehow on this court. I always try to play great tennis and I have been. Let’s enjoy this one. We got two more guys. We got two more."</p>

<p>While Tiafoe is at his best at present, his&nbsp;route into tennis has not been traditional in any way. His parents met in the US after shifting from Sierra Leone and had twins, Franklin and Frances. The tennis star's father,&nbsp;Constant Tiafoe, did the hard yards to run the family. He&nbsp;worked at the Junior Tennis Champions Center in Washington, D.C. back in 1999 and&nbsp;moved into one of its vacant storage rooms while working 24*7.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the twins -- Frances and Franklin -- stayed with their father, slept on massage tables whereas the mother did night shifts as a nurse to ensure&nbsp;they could make ends meet.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-open-2022-frances-tiafoe-defeats-andrey-rublev-to-enter-semi-finals-513982"><strong>US Open 2022: Frances Tiafoe defeats Andrey Rublev to enter semi-finals</strong></a></p>

<p>As fate would have it, Tiafoe got an entry into the sport in an&nbsp;unusual manner and he started honing his skills by training at the facility. Since then, there was no looking back for the youngster who was destined to take up the celebrated sport.</p>

<p>“Obviously, I wasn’t the wealthy kid or wasn’t having all the new stuff or whatever. But I was just living life. I could play tennis for free, the sport I loved,” Taifoe had revealed to CNN Sport&nbsp;in 2015.</p>

<p>On Wednesday, when he was asked what people should draw from his inspirational tale, Taifoe mentioned, "I mean, anybody can do it, honestly. Obviously that’s a cliché, but I think if you are really passionate about something… Everybody’s got a gift," while also revealing that his passion and obsession is tennis.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-open-teen-sensation-carlos-alcaraz-flies-past-jannik-sinner-to-cement-position-in-the-semi-finals-514070"><strong>US Open: Teen sensation Carlos Alcaraz flies past Jannik Sinner to cement position in the semi-finals</strong></a></p>

<p data-analytics-observe="off" data-component-name="paragraph" data-editable="text" data-uri="archive.cms.cnn.com/_components/paragraph/instances/paragraph_A5E662AD-CFD2-8B15-59BC-1378ADB070D0@published">On Wednesday, his coach Wayne Ferreira stressed that&nbsp;Tiafoe’s story is a movie material. Nonetheless, he wants his disciple&nbsp;to win the US Open or another grand slam event first.</p>

<p data-analytics-observe="off" data-component-name="paragraph" data-editable="text" data-uri="archive.cms.cnn.com/_components/paragraph/instances/paragraph_AFE739F2-B02B-F66E-9F04-1C662A44415B@published">“You only get movies if you do well. But his story is very unique, and it’s a great story. And he’s very humbled. He’s a very, very, very nice individual. Very great heart and kind. You’ve got to love him. He’s truly special," Ferreira stated.</p>

<p data-analytics-observe="off" data-component-name="paragraph" data-editable="text" data-uri="archive.cms.cnn.com/_components/paragraph/instances/paragraph_AFE739F2-B02B-F66E-9F04-1C662A44415B@published">While a nation's hopes are pinned on Tiafoe, he is focused on making his parents proud. Ahead of the much-awaited semi-final clash against teenager Alcaraz, the American is expecting the home support to work in his favour. "</p>

<p data-analytics-observe="off" data-component-name="paragraph" data-editable="text" data-uri="archive.cms.cnn.com/_components/paragraph/instances/paragraph_2F895B0F-CBAC-6D7D-3879-1C6BC3D25C87@published">“That stuff gets me emotional, for sure. Seeing people screaming your name, just loving what you’re doing. That’s awesome. That’s what it’s all about,” Tiafoe told reporters after his win over Rublev. "You know, everyone loves a Cinderella story. [I’m] just trying to make one," he further asserted.</p>

<p data-analytics-observe="off" data-component-name="paragraph" data-editable="text" data-uri="archive.cms.cnn.com/_components/paragraph/instances/paragraph_2F895B0F-CBAC-6D7D-3879-1C6BC3D25C87@published">Tiafoe, becoming the first American to reach the US Open last four since Andy Roddick in 2006, is now a serious title-contender. Will he win two more and clinch his maiden Grand Slam title at the Flushing Meadows? Only time will tell...</p>


Rafael Nadal was a favourite to clinch the US Open title, especially after defending champion Daniil Medvedev's defeat to Nick Krygios. Nonetheless, the Spaniard was shown the door by America's Frances Tiafoe in the Round of 16 clash.

Rafael Nadal was a favourite to clinch the US Open title, especially after defending champion Daniil Medvedev's defeat to Nick Krygios. Nonetheless, the Spaniard was shown the door by America's Frances Tiafoe in the Round of 16 clash. Tiafoe has now ousted Russian ninth seed Andrey Rublev 7-6 (7/3), 7-6 (7/0), 6-4 in straight sets to setup a semi-final clash with Carlos Alcaraz in the last Grand Slam of the year. The 24-year-old Tiafoe, who is aiming to become the first African-American man to clinch the US Open since Arthur Ashe in 1968, reflected on his win during an on-court interview post the proceedings, "I feel so at home at courts like this. This court is unbelievable. You guys get so far behind me, you know I want to play and want to give it my best. I always find a way somehow on this court. I always try to play great tennis and I have been. Let’s enjoy this one. We got two more guys. We got two more." While Tiafoe is at his best at present, his route into tennis has not been traditional in any way. His parents met in the US after shifting from Sierra Leone and had twins, Franklin and Frances. The tennis star's father, Constant Tiafoe, did the hard yards to run the family. He worked at the Junior Tennis Champions Center in Washington, D.C. back in 1999 and moved into one of its vacant storage rooms while working 24*7. Meanwhile, the twins -- Frances and Franklin -- stayed with their father, slept on massage tables whereas the mother did night shifts as a nurse to ensure they could make ends meet. ALSO READ | US Open 2022: Frances Tiafoe defeats Andrey Rublev to enter semi-finals As fate would have it, Tiafoe got an entry into the sport in an unusual manner and he started honing his skills by training at the facility. Since then, there was no looking back for the youngster who was destined to take up the celebrated sport. “Obviously, I wasn’t the wealthy kid or wasn’t having all the new stuff or whatever. But I was just living life. I could play tennis for free, the sport I loved,” Taifoe had revealed to CNN Sport in 2015. On Wednesday, when he was asked what people should draw from his inspirational tale, Taifoe mentioned, "I mean, anybody can do it, honestly. Obviously that’s a cliché, but I think if you are really passionate about something… Everybody’s got a gift," while also revealing that his passion and obsession is tennis. ALSO READ | US Open: Teen sensation Carlos Alcaraz flies past Jannik Sinner to cement position in the semi-finals On Wednesday, his coach Wayne Ferreira stressed that Tiafoe’s story is a movie material. Nonetheless, he wants his disciple to win the US Open or another grand slam event first. “You only get movies if you do well. But his story is very unique, and it’s a great story. And he’s very humbled. He’s a very, very, very nice individual. Very great heart and kind. You’ve got to love him. He’s truly special," Ferreira stated. While a nation's hopes are pinned on Tiafoe, he is focused on making his parents proud. Ahead of the much-awaited semi-final clash against teenager Alcaraz, the American is expecting the home support to work in his favour. " “That stuff gets me emotional, for sure. Seeing people screaming your name, just loving what you’re doing. That’s awesome. That’s what it’s all about,” Tiafoe told reporters after his win over Rublev. "You know, everyone loves a Cinderella story. [I’m] just trying to make one," he further asserted. Tiafoe, becoming the first American to reach the US Open last four since Andy Roddick in 2006, is now a serious title-contender. Will he win two more and clinch his maiden Grand Slam title at the Flushing Meadows? Only time will tell...

'Everybody’s got a gift' - Frances Tiafoe narrates his inspiring journey on entering US Open semi-finals

<p>Frances Tiafoe of the United States produced the performance of a lifetime to send Rafael Nadal crashing out of the US Open in a stunning fourth round upset on Monday.</p>

<p>Tiafoe, who had only reached one major championship quarter-final in his career before, shattered Nadal's hopes of adding to his record collection of 22 Grand Slam singles titles with a 6-4, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3 victory.</p>

<p>A packed Arthur Ashe Stadium crowd roared in delight as the 24-year-old 22nd seed bombarded Nadal with 18 aces and 49 winners to seal victory in 3hr 34min.</p>

<p>The win sends Tiafoe into a last eight showdown against Russian ninth seed Andrey Rublev on Wednesday.</p>

<p>"I don't even know what to say right now," Tiafoe said after his superb victory. "I'm beyond happy, I'm almost in tears.I can't believe it.</p>

<p>"He's definitely one of the greatest of all time. I played unbelievable tennis today but yeah - I really don't know what happened."</p>

<p>Tiafoe, the son of immigrants from Sierra Leone who began playing tennis as a four-year-old when his father worked as a live-in caretaker at a tennis facility in Maryland, had never gone further than the fourth round at the US Open in seven previous appearances.</p>

<p>"When I first came on the scene a lot of people had expectations of me of how I would do and stuff, but I wasn't ready for it. Mentally I wasn't mature enough for those moments," Tiafoe said.</p>

<p>"But these last couple of years I've been able to put my head down and develop."</p>

<p>Nadal paid tribute to Tiafoe's performance, and admitted he had struggled to cope with the American's tactic of moving him around the court.</p>

<p><strong>'I played a bad match'&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>"I played a bad match and he played a good match. At the end that's it, no?," Nadal said.</p>

<p>"Tennis is a sport of position a lot of times, no? If not, you need to be very, very quick and very young. I am not in that moment anymore," the 36-year-old said.</p>

<p>In two previous matches against Nadal, Tiafoe had never taken a single set off the Spanish legend.</p>

<p>However he set the tone for magical performance early in Monday's match, grabbing the first with a break of serve to go 4-3 up in the first before taking the set.</p>

<p>Nadal hit back to level in the second set as Tiafoe nervily double-faulted on set point.</p>

<p>But the American regrouped superbly in the third, sending Nadal scampering across the baseline repeatedly with some pinpoint groundstrokes into the corners.</p>

<p>He broke for a 4-3 lead once more and then held for 5-3. After Nadal held to close the gap, Tiafoe served for the set and clinched a 2-1 lead with an ace after a masterful running forehand winner down the line had taken him to match point.</p>

<p>The turning point in a pivotal fourth set came soon after Nadal had swept into a 3-1 lead, roaring with delight after breaking Tiafoe and seemingly poised to force a fifth set.</p>

<p>Tiafoe however broke back to cut the deficit, cleverly moving Nadal out of position before hammering a forehand into the corner to make it 3-2.</p>

<p>Nadal almost struck back immediately in the next game however, earning two break points at 15-40.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But Tiafoe responded magnificently with four straight points to hold with an ace to level the set at 3-3.</p>

<p>From there, Tiafoe's momentum proved irresistible and he broke once more for a 4-3 and then held serve after blasting his 18th ace of the game for 5-3, before scoring another break to clinch victory.</p>


Frances Tiafoe of the United States produced the performance of a lifetime to send Rafael Nadal crashing out of the US Open in a stunning fourth round upset on Monday.

Frances Tiafoe of the United States produced the performance of a lifetime to send Rafael Nadal crashing out of the US Open in a stunning fourth round upset on Monday. Tiafoe, who had only reached one major championship quarter-final in his career before, shattered Nadal's hopes of adding to his record collection of 22 Grand Slam singles titles with a 6-4, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3 victory. A packed Arthur Ashe Stadium crowd roared in delight as the 24-year-old 22nd seed bombarded Nadal with 18 aces and 49 winners to seal victory in 3hr 34min. The win sends Tiafoe into a last eight showdown against Russian ninth seed Andrey Rublev on Wednesday. "I don't even know what to say right now," Tiafoe said after his superb victory. "I'm beyond happy, I'm almost in tears.I can't believe it. "He's definitely one of the greatest of all time. I played unbelievable tennis today but yeah - I really don't know what happened." Tiafoe, the son of immigrants from Sierra Leone who began playing tennis as a four-year-old when his father worked as a live-in caretaker at a tennis facility in Maryland, had never gone further than the fourth round at the US Open in seven previous appearances. "When I first came on the scene a lot of people had expectations of me of how I would do and stuff, but I wasn't ready for it. Mentally I wasn't mature enough for those moments," Tiafoe said. "But these last couple of years I've been able to put my head down and develop." Nadal paid tribute to Tiafoe's performance, and admitted he had struggled to cope with the American's tactic of moving him around the court. 'I played a bad match' "I played a bad match and he played a good match. At the end that's it, no?," Nadal said. "Tennis is a sport of position a lot of times, no? If not, you need to be very, very quick and very young. I am not in that moment anymore," the 36-year-old said. In two previous matches against Nadal, Tiafoe had never taken a single set off the Spanish legend. However he set the tone for magical performance early in Monday's match, grabbing the first with a break of serve to go 4-3 up in the first before taking the set. Nadal hit back to level in the second set as Tiafoe nervily double-faulted on set point. But the American regrouped superbly in the third, sending Nadal scampering across the baseline repeatedly with some pinpoint groundstrokes into the corners. He broke for a 4-3 lead once more and then held for 5-3. After Nadal held to close the gap, Tiafoe served for the set and clinched a 2-1 lead with an ace after a masterful running forehand winner down the line had taken him to match point. The turning point in a pivotal fourth set came soon after Nadal had swept into a 3-1 lead, roaring with delight after breaking Tiafoe and seemingly poised to force a fifth set. Tiafoe however broke back to cut the deficit, cleverly moving Nadal out of position before hammering a forehand into the corner to make it 3-2. Nadal almost struck back immediately in the next game however, earning two break points at 15-40. But Tiafoe responded magnificently with four straight points to hold with an ace to level the set at 3-3. From there, Tiafoe's momentum proved irresistible and he broke once more for a 4-3 and then held serve after blasting his 18th ace of the game for 5-3, before scoring another break to clinch victory.

Brilliant Frances Tiafoe sends Rafael Nadal crashing out of US Open

<p>Rafael Nadal admitted Monday that he wasn't sure when he will return to action after Frances Tiafoe condemned him to his earliest US Open exit since 2016. Four-time US champion Nadal, bidding for a 23rd Grand Slam title, lost 6-4, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3 in the last-16 to 26th-ranked Tiafoe. The American's free-swinging performance conjured up 18 aces and 49 winners which flew past a sluggish Nadal on Arthur Ashe Stadium. For Australian and French Open champion Nadal, it was a first Grand Slam loss of 2022 after an abdominal strain forced him to forfeit his Wimbledon semi-final. The defeat ended a run of 16 successive Slams where the Spaniard had made at least the quarter-finals.</p>

<p>"I need to go back. I need to fix things. I don't know when I going to come back," Nadal told a press conference. "I going to try to be ready mentally. When I feel that I will be ready to compete again, I will be there." Nadal has endured a rollercoaster year. His two Slam titles have taken him one clear of Novak Djokovic but his physical frailties have also returned to haunt him.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-open-2022-carlos-alcaraz-beats-marin-cilic-in-late-night-thriller-to-set-up-sinner-clash-in-quarters-513367"><strong>US Open 2022: Carlos Alcaraz beats Marin Cilic in late-night thriller to set up Sinner clash in quarters</strong></a></p>

<p>Nadal suffered a stress fracture of the ribs in March before requiring daily pain-killing injections in his left foot to see him through to a 14th French Open title in June. Then his bid for a third Wimbledon crown was shattered by an abdominal injury. Nadal is due to become a father for the first time in the coming weeks, a factor which will factor heavily into his future on-court plans. "Now I have to go home, I have more important things than tennis to attend to," he said.&nbsp; "Decisions will be made based on how everything goes in my personal life, which comes before my professional life." He added: "It's been a bit difficult for a few months but I want to finish the year with something very important that is my first child."</p>

<p>Nadal is scheduled to return to action at the Laver Cup in London from September 23. He has already qualified for the ATP Tour Finals in Turin to be staged in November. Despite his doubts over his future plans, Nadal told Spanish media that he won't rule out playing again this year. "I will do a mini pre-season to finish the year in Europe with good feelings and that is what we are going to try. There is a tournament ahead if everything else goes well," he said. Tiafoe is Nadal's junior by 12 years and on Monday, the Spaniard admitted that age is becoming a factor.&nbsp; "I was not able to push him back. Tennis is a sport of position a lot of times," he added. "If not, you need to be very, very quick and very young. I am not in that moment anymore."</p>


Rafael Nadal admitted Monday that he wasn't sure when he will return to action after Frances Tiafoe condemned him to his earliest US Open exit since 2016. Four-time US champion Nadal, bidding for a 23rd Grand Slam title, lost 6-4, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3 in the last-16 to 26th-ranked Tiafoe.

Rafael Nadal admitted Monday that he wasn't sure when he will return to action after Frances Tiafoe condemned him to his earliest US Open exit since 2016. Four-time US champion Nadal, bidding for a 23rd Grand Slam title, lost 6-4, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3 in the last-16 to 26th-ranked Tiafoe. The American's free-swinging performance conjured up 18 aces and 49 winners which flew past a sluggish Nadal on Arthur Ashe Stadium. For Australian and French Open champion Nadal, it was a first Grand Slam loss of 2022 after an abdominal strain forced him to forfeit his Wimbledon semi-final. The defeat ended a run of 16 successive Slams where the Spaniard had made at least the quarter-finals. "I need to go back. I need to fix things. I don't know when I going to come back," Nadal told a press conference. "I going to try to be ready mentally. When I feel that I will be ready to compete again, I will be there." Nadal has endured a rollercoaster year. His two Slam titles have taken him one clear of Novak Djokovic but his physical frailties have also returned to haunt him. ALSO READ | US Open 2022: Carlos Alcaraz beats Marin Cilic in late-night thriller to set up Sinner clash in quarters Nadal suffered a stress fracture of the ribs in March before requiring daily pain-killing injections in his left foot to see him through to a 14th French Open title in June. Then his bid for a third Wimbledon crown was shattered by an abdominal injury. Nadal is due to become a father for the first time in the coming weeks, a factor which will factor heavily into his future on-court plans. "Now I have to go home, I have more important things than tennis to attend to," he said. "Decisions will be made based on how everything goes in my personal life, which comes before my professional life." He added: "It's been a bit difficult for a few months but I want to finish the year with something very important that is my first child." Nadal is scheduled to return to action at the Laver Cup in London from September 23. He has already qualified for the ATP Tour Finals in Turin to be staged in November. Despite his doubts over his future plans, Nadal told Spanish media that he won't rule out playing again this year. "I will do a mini pre-season to finish the year in Europe with good feelings and that is what we are going to try. There is a tournament ahead if everything else goes well," he said. Tiafoe is Nadal's junior by 12 years and on Monday, the Spaniard admitted that age is becoming a factor. "I was not able to push him back. Tennis is a sport of position a lot of times," he added. "If not, you need to be very, very quick and very young. I am not in that moment anymore."

'I don't know when I'll be back,' says Rafael Nadal after US Open exit

rafael-nadal

Rafael Nadal, News on Rafael Nadal, stories on Rafael Nadal, articles on Rafael Nadal, Rafael Nadal stories at Wion, Rafael Nadal news, Rafael Nadal latest news

rafael nadal