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WATCH: Rafael Nadal in tears after Roger Federer’s final competitive tennis match

By Brooke Villanueva Published Sep 24, 2022 12:13 pm

One last time.

Rafael Nadal wasn’t able to hold back his tears after Roger Federer's final competitive match, which marked the end of the latter’s remarkable tennis career. 

Federer played his last professional tennis game at the Laver Cup in London on Saturday, Sept. 24 (Philippine time). He teamed up with Nadal under Team Europe that went against Frances Tiafoe and Jack Sock of the United States. The American duo emerged as the winners after the three-set match. 

When the tourney was concluded, the two tennis legends tearfully greeted the crowd who gave Federer a standing ovation as he mouthed “Thank you.” 

Nadal couldn’t help but get emotional over his long-time rival and friend’s farewell, as seen in a video posted by Clutch Points on Twitter. 

On his Instagram account, Nadal posted some snaps of Federer from the unforgettable sports event. "Thanks RF!!!" he wrote in the caption.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Rafa Nadal (@rafaelnadal)

Federer announced his retirement on Sept. 15, citing some injuries and surgeries that challenged his body over the last few years. “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,” he wrote in his official statement. 

“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 recognize when it is time to end my competitive career,” he added. 

After his last tennis match, Federer mused: “it’s been a perfect journey. I would do it all over again.”