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Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer have created one of the greatest rivalries in all sports but off the court they have maintained a good relationship. Following Nadal's record 14th French Open victory, Federer sent a congratulatory message to the Spaniard.
Nadal now has a record 22 Grand Slams, while Federer and Novak Djokovic are tied on the second place with 20 Majors. Federer didn't compete at the French Open as he is still recovering from a knee surgery. Speaking on his relationship with Federer, Nadal said they have a good relationship.
"With Roger, I have a good relationship and a special feeling. After the victory, he wrote me a message to compliment me," Nadal said during his conversation with Angelo Mangiante on Sky Sports, per Sportskeeda.
Nadal on winning the French Open
Just a week before the French Open, there was a concern that Nadal might not be able to play due to a chronic foot pain.
Nadal was able to put his foot to "sleep" for two weeks and win a record 14th French Open title after beating Casper Ruud in the final. "It's an incredible story, difficult for me to explain, but that's the way things are and I'm particularly happy.
The last three and a half months have been difficult, there has been a lot of work behind it but also with many limitations. Being able to go all the way to Roland Garros with a win is very exciting," said Nadal. Also, Nadal predicted a bright future for the Italian tennis as he thinks that an Italian will definitely win a Grand Slam in the next few years.
"I have played many times in Italy. In the end there are many similarities with Spain, the language is similar, it is a friendly country of Spain. When I am in Italy, I always feel at home. I believe that Italy is doing a very good job and we are seeing positive results with Jannik Sinner, Matteo Berrettini, Lorenzo Sonego, and Lorenzo Musetti.
Lots of young players with great chances of winning a Grand Slam and I'm sure it will happen." Nadal said.