Roger Federer has made a significant gesture by publishing a long letter in tribute to his great rival Rafael Nadal. Nadal is set to bid farewell to tennis at the Davis Cup finals in Malaga this week, with Spain starting their campaign against the Netherlands on Tuesday. Their intense rivalry has defined one of the greatest eras in the sport, with the pair locking horns 40 times between 2004 and 2019.

Key Moments in Their Rivalry

In the letter posted on social media, Federer expressed his admiration. He wrote, "Vamos, Rafael Nadal! As you prepare to leave tennis, I have a few things to share before I might get emotional. Let's begin with the obvious: you defeated me numerous times. You challenged me in ways that no one else could. On clay, it felt as if I were entering your domain, and you made me work harder than I ever imagined just to maintain my ground. You made me reimagine my game - even going so far as to change the size of my racket head, hoping for any advantage. And you know what, Rafa, you made me enjoy the game even more. OK, perhaps not at first. After the 2004 Australian Open, I achieved the number-one ranking for the first time. I thought I was on top of the world. And I was - until two months later when you stepped onto the court in Miami in your red sleeveless shirt, showing off those biceps, and you beat me convincingly."They have competed in nine grand slam finals, with Nadal winning six of them. One of their most famous moments together occurred at Federer's emotional farewell at the Laver Cup in London two years ago. The pair were pictured crying and holding hands, demonstrating the deep respect and connection between them.

The Impact of Nadal's Rituals

Federer also referenced Nadal's famous rituals and the time his four children have spent at the 38-year-old's tennis academies. He added, "I always worried my kids would come home playing tennis as lefties." This shows the influence Nadal has had not only on the tennis court but also in other aspects of their lives.

The Last Stretch of Nadal's Career

Nadal was asked at a press conference on Monday about the possibility of Federer traveling to Malaga. Novak Djokovic has already said he would come. Nadal responded, "I didn't talk to Roger. I think Roger has a busy schedule. By the way, of course, this is going to be my last week on the professional tour, but I don't think it's going to be my last goodbye. So there will be other chances to do something." This highlights the ongoing significance of their relationship even as Nadal's career comes to an end.Federer concluded his letter by saying, "Rafa, I know you're focused on the last stretch of your epic career. We will talk when it's done. For now, I just want to congratulate your family and team, who all played a massive role in your success. And I want you to know that your old friend is always cheering for you, and will be cheering just as loud for everything you do next. Rafa that! Best always, your fan, Roger."