September 21, (THEWILL) – At the 2022 Laver Cup, Roger Federer revealed he hopes to play doubles with longtime adversary Rafael Nadal in what would be the final match of his illustrious career.
The Swiss maestro, who sat out all of the Grand Slam events this year due to knee issues, stated on Wednesday that he hopes to be well enough to participate in doubles on Friday night before making room on the Team Europe roster for Matteo Berrettini.
The 20-time Grand Slam winner noted that having Nadal as his partner would be ideal, but captain Björn Borg will have the final say.
Federer said: “Of course, no doubt. I think it could be quite a unique situation, if it were to happen. For as long as we battled together, having always had this respect for one another, our families, coaching teams, for us as well to go through a career we both have had, come out the other side and have a nice relationship, is maybe a great message to tennis and beyond. For that reason, it would be great, I don’t know if it will happen, but it would be great.”
It is unlikely that Borg will not allow Federer the chance to line up next to Nadal as desired given that Friday will be his final official match. Federer has stated his intention to play tennis again, just not in an ATP Tour competitive setting. The 41-year-old Swiss sensation is optimistic his body can handle the challenge.
