What Rafael Nadal said after his French Open semi-final win over Roger Federer in 2005 shows his timeless class.
Nadal became the youngest man to reach the final of the French Open since 1989 when he beat Federer.
The Spaniard went on to win his first Grand Slam in his maiden attempt at Roland Garros, beating Mariano Puerta in the final.
Before that victory, the debutant shocked world No 1 Federer with a four-set victory, ending the Swiss’ hopes of a first major title in Spain.
Nadal, who was 19 at the time, spoke with honour after the comfortable win over his 23-year-old opponent, and praised his persona.
The Spaniard said: “It’s incredible to be in the final and beat the number one in the world.
“Being in the final is just a dream.
“I’ve beaten the man who’s the number one to me, not only for his tennis but also as a person.”
Nadal described Federer as not only the best player, but the best person he knew, showing just how much of an influence he has had on his great rival’s career.
The two combined 14 years later in 2019 to help Team Europe to a dramatic Laver Cup triumph, with the pair now having 39 Grand Slam titles between them (Federer with 20 and Nadal 19).
“To be honest we understand each other very, very well,” Federer told TVA Sports.
“What I like of Rafa is how open and honest we are one another.
“We respect each other so much. Are we best friends? I do not think so. He has better friends than me and me too.
“But in the end, it’s about the respect. When we fight on the court, we are rivals.
After winning both the French Open and US Open in 2019, Nadal is now just one major title behind Federer’s all-time record, and has the advantage of being 33 years old to Federer’s 38.
The pair are both looking to add to their tallies during the 2020 season, which could yet be Federer’s last.
