In his documentary titled “Federer: Twelve Final Days,” tennis icon Roger Federer got a bit emotional while talking about his rivalry and relationship with Rafael Nadal.
During Federer’s nearly 25-year professional career in the tennis circuit, he and Nadal battled 30 times and often fought for the world No. 1 ranking in the ATP Tour. While his Spanish counterpart got the better of their head-to-head matchups at 24-16, Federer has been more dominant when it comes to the majors.
Sure, Nadal has more Grand Slam wins with 22 to Federer’s 20, but the Swiss great actually has more titles in the Australian Open (6), Wimbledon (8) and US Open (5). Meanwhile, most of Nadal’s Grand Slam wins came from the French Open where he has a staggering 14 titles–earning him the King of Clay nickname.
Simply put, Federer and Nadal were heated competitors who just couldn’t seem to get the better of each other during their battles. But despite the fierce rivalry they had, they always shared a mutual respect for each other and are actually good friends off the court.
Sure, Nadal has more Grand Slam wins with 22 to Federer’s 20, but the Swiss great actually has more titles in the Australian Open (6), Wimbledon (8) and US Open (5). Meanwhile, most of Nadal’s Grand Slam wins came from the French Open where he has a staggering 14 titles–earning him the King of Clay nickname.
