Roger Federer expressed his love for his rivals after years of hard work on the court.

Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray (Via Imago)

The Big 4, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and Andy Murray were on top of the game for almost two decades, in fact, the Serb still is. With intense rivalries among the four, the world was always keen on watching any one of them play.

However, more often than not, there would be a question of whether one of the Big 4 would follow up on their rival’s matches or not. Turns out that Federer indeed does follow up, especially after retirement. In a recent interview with Gazzetta, the Swiss legend spoke about his rivals, mentioning that he follows them and their results keenly.

I follow my rivals & friends with pleasure. I am interested in the results. I play and watch as much tennis as possible. We get along very well with Djokovic, Nadal and Murray. I will always be grateful for what they have done for me: if they need me I will always be there for them.

said Roger Federer via Gazzetta

Moreover, the 42-year-old also extended a warm hand of support for his rivals, saying that he would be there if they needed him while being grateful for what they have done. The strong relationship between the four continues even outside of the sport and it is stronger than ever that they are no longer active rivals.

Roger Federer revealed the concerns he had for rival Rafael Nadal

Recently, Roger Federer disclosed that he once had concerns about Rafael Nadal retiring from tennis before him. Even though they share a five-year age gap, Nadal had entered the grand stage of tennis, to have one of the biggest rivalries in the sport with Federer.

Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal (Via Imago)
In a recent interview with El Pais, Roger Federer revealed that he felt that Nadal would consider retiring before him despite being younger due to his persistent injury concerns. The Spaniard had always had recurring injuries that kept him out of the game for some time, and he would make a comeback to do even better.

There were signs that made us feel that Rafa was not well and that he was not going to last as long as he has.

said Roger Federer in the interview

However, Nadal proved his fear wrong and is continuing to play. Although it is most probably his last year on tour, the Spaniard has lasted longer than his rival to surpass his records.