Rafael Nadal breaks down in tears next to crying Roger Federer during emotional farewell

 

 

Tennis legend Roger Federer has officially retired.

 

The final match of the 20-time Grand Slam champion’s career was a doubles match with Rafael Nadal at the Laver Cup.

 

Federer and Nadal, collectively known as “Fedal,” nearly defeated American teammates Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe despite not competing for more than a year.

 

However, after having a match point at 9-8 in the final set, the team representing Europe versus the rest of the globe ultimately fell short 4-6 7-6 (7-2) 11-9.

Federer will be remembered as one of the greatest players in the history of the game, regardless of how his career turns out.

As Federer spoke to the 17,500-seat O2 Arena audience in London, it was a moving moment.

 

Ellie Goulding sang while a montage of Federer’s career was played in the background during the homage to the Swiss player. As Federer and Nadal were being filmed, the cameras panned to them.

 

Throughout their tennis careers, Federer and Nadal have competed against each other for Grand Slams. With 22 wins under his belt, Nadal has now eclipsed Federer’s total, but greatness recognized greatness in a beautiful moment.