Rafael Nadal confirmed that he will join with Roger Federer in a Friday doubles pairing for the ages on the opening day of the Laver, Cup.
The Spaniard and his Swiss rival who will make the doubles rubber his last professional match will pair in a knockout combination for Team Europe against the Rest of the World side.
“Tomorrow will be a special thing,” the world No. 3 Spaniard said. “It’s gonna be difficult to handle everything, especially for Roger, without a doubt.
For me too. At the end the most important player in my tennis career, is leaving, no?
“To live this moment will be difficult. I’m super excited and grateful to play with him.”
The 22-time Grand Slam winner who made a late arrival to London as he left his pregnant wife in Mallorca, added: ” I have a tough personal situation now, so thank you very much, everyone (for his late arrival)..
“I’m gonna try to do my best in every single way, to help make this moment even more special.
The 36-year-old said Laver pressure on a team with Federer will be unique.
“After all the amazing things that we shared together on and off court, to be part of this historic moment is gonna be something amazing, unforgettable for me.
“I’m super-excited. I hope I have a good chance to play at a decent level, and hopefully together we can create a good moment and maybe win a match.
“I hope that the crowd will be supporting a lot. Being on court with Roger next to me one more time will be something that I am very looking forward to.
“I’m just very happy for that.”
Main photo:- Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal on opposite side of the net at Roland – by Roger Parker International Sports Fotos Ltd
