‘Surprised to See Rafa Cry’ – Bjorn Borg Harks Back to Heart-Breaking Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal Moment at Laver Cup
The heartbreaking memories from the 2022 Laver Cup are still afresh in the mind of every fan. One of the sport’s greatest players, Roger Federer, called time on his illustrious career after that tournament. Additionally, there was one moment from the tournament that went viral all over. After Federer played his last match alongside Rafael Nadal, the two were caught in an emotional moment as tears rolled down their cheeks. Despite being a long-time rival, Nadal got emotional as Federer bid adieu to the sport. Nearly two years after that heartbreaking moment, Bjorn Borg shed light on the gravity of that incident.
With the Laver Cup coming up this weekend, Team Europe captain, Borg, was involved in an interview with the German publication Tennis Magazin. During that interview, he was asked about Nadal’s longevity on the tour as he copes with his injuries. Replying to that, Borg said, “We all knew that Roger was going to end his career, although I was very surprised to see Rafa cry so much beside him. At that moment, I really thought: Will Rafa keep playing?”
Borg acknowledged the fact that Nadal and Federer had mutual respect over the years and they also became good friends during their journey, despite being rivals on the court. He went on to add, “The fact that he cried shows how much Roger has meant to him; they have shared some great matches, giving us incredible tennis. Rafa was sad about saying goodbye to a friend and rival leaving the tour; it also showed well who Rafa is. I feel sorry for both because we lose a great rivalry, but it was still a nice moment to see, also very emotional for me.”
The question about Nadal’s future arose after he withdrew from this week’s Laver Cup. The Spaniard isn’t fully fit and has been away from the action for quite some time now. He updated his fans about his withdrawal via a social media post.
Rafael Nadal on his Laver Cup withdrawal: ‘I’m really disappointed’
After missing some big tournaments like the Wimbledon Championships and the US Open, Nadal was expected to feature at the Laver Cup in what might turn out to be his final year on the tour. However, he isn’t back to full fitness and doesn’t want to compromise the chances of his team while playing with an injury.
Explaining the reason behind his withdrawal, the Spanish maestro said, “I’m really disappointed to share that I won’t be able to compete at the Laver Cup in Berlin next week. This is a team competition and to really support Team Europe, I need to do what’s best for them and at this moment there are other players who can help the team deliver the win.”
Nonetheless, it is speculated that Nadal will feature for Spain in the Davis Cup Finals to be played later this year. He’ll potentially play alongside Carlos Alcaraz, as he hopes to have one last laugh before calling time on his illustrious career.
