Rafael Nadal says ‘a part of his life left’ when Roger Federer retired
Rafael Nadal has vowed: “When I’m done, I’ll be the most successful player in history” and believes he can beat Roger Federer at the All England Club.
The Spaniard said Federer’s retirement decision is “a part of his life” and is nothing the tennis world must “look forward to”.
Losing Federer and Novak Djokovic at the same time will, Nadal believes, be “very challenging” but the world number three is confident that he can still match Federer’s serve and talent.
In a wide-ranging interview at the end of a week of press gab with tennis magazines, Nadal said he “grew up with” Federer and that “maybe in 20 years, at the same age” if Federer decides to “come back”, then he too will probably retire.
(Image: Getty)
(Image: EPA)
“If he comes back, I will be the number one, he will be the number two,” Nadal, 30, said when asked if he could beat Federer. “When we’re done we’ll be the two best players in history.”
The Madrid star added that he does not look to be playing until the next season.
“I’m not playing this year, I’m not playing until 2019,” he said. “Next year, I could play. But I do not want to play for a few years.”
Nadal was quizzed on whether his loss of motivation is as a result of a recent loss to Jo-Wilfried Tsonga at the French Open or on the loss of his first ATP final since October 2013 to Fernando Verdasco.
Nadal’s current form has been strong, with his last four matches ending in straight sets. Speaking after his fourth-round defeat to Djokovic in two sets, Nadal said: “Roger is a great player but his serve is also different and I have to find a way to change.
“I always played well against him but it is not the same now. I’ve never beaten the guy in his best form, and I’m really surprised how well I played today.
“I think
